Fitness-focused

Susan Nix loves her job as a curriculum coordinator for ECISD. But, her personal passion is fitness, to the point that she works out at 4 a.m. and trains clients on her free time.

"There's times I have to leave work at 6 p.m. and then go to the gym," Nix said.

She currently has a few clients she charges, but many she helps for free since receiving her personal fitness trainer certification in 2004. She has a busy schedule already planning the curriculum for science, health and PE in the district, leaving little time for her side work as a trainer. She works with clients in the evening and weekends during her spare time as a way to guide others toward good health.

It's a passion that's in the family. Her brother owned some of the first Gold's Gyms in Austin. For those who work with her in ECISD, her personal commitment to fitness is well known.

"It's the way she lives her life, even the small things like taking the stairs instead of the elevator," curriculum officer Janet Baker said.

Nix said she heads to the gym in Midland, where she lives and worked prior to coming to ECISD. She starts working out before 5 a.m. and keeps going for an hour-and-a-half before heading to work in Odessa.

"I'm tired in the evening, but starting out so early helps me get through the day," Nix said.

She said it's important for every person to exercise, that the body is able to undo damage built up from poor behavior. She has some advice for those wanting to start an exercise program.

"The key is strengthening the core (abdominal area)," Nix said. "I really emphasize the abs and back. Some of the best exercise is just from having access to a pool."

As a trainer, she said her job is to guide clients on the right way to exercise. For example, she will watch those on a treadmill to make sure they have a good heart rate and stay hydrated. She said those who want to make the change find the time, and once she gets them started, she is able to largely just check progress.

Nix started her career as a coach at Midland Independent School District's Goddard Junior High before moving to Midland High in 1989, where she was the head varsity girl's track and assistant volleyball coach and a biology and psychology teacher.

However, what led her to ECISD was a desire to move into administration and apply what she learned from her master's administrative certificate.

"A door opened up here, and I've been very blessed ECISD made me feel so welcome," she said.

She said she lives her focus on health by emphasizing the importance of physical activity to all ECISD students. She pushed to have the district start a FitnessGram exam that tests students' basic abilities even before Texas made the test mandatory for students.

"This is our opportunity to show how vital PE is in a child's day," Nix said. "It's not about competition, but are they in a healthy zone."

James Lewallen, district social studies coordinator, said he is inspired by Nix's focus on health. But, there's something else he likes about her as well.

"You know where you stand. She will do anything she can to help you," he said.

Nix said she will keep helping herself with exercise.

"I'm gonna fight that age as long as I can," she said.

EXERCISE TIPS

>> Consult a doctor prior to starting any program.

>> Choose fun, not exhausting, activities.

>> Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

>> Make exercise a habit and find a time that fits into your schedule.

>> Use music to keep you entertained.

>> Surround yourself with supportive people.

>> Don't overdo it.

>> Keep a record of your activities.

Source: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=801