Fitness Coordinator of Oklahoma State University Seretean Wellness Center Wins Triathlon Championship
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Fedick is a 29-year-old, Catoosa native with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutritional Sciences and a Master of Science degree in Health and Human Performance. She trains year round to compete in triathlons. She is also the winner of the South West Regional Championship. Preparing for a triathlon includes training 15 to 20 hours per week in the three disciplines. A triathlon includes swimming, biking and running. As well as keeping on schedule with her training, Fedick maintains a full-time job at the SWC.
“We are so proud of Joanna and her accomplishments,” said Mary Talley, Program Manager at the Seretean Wellness Center. “Because of her experience in collegiate athletics and her own medical issues, she relates well to our clients and works with them to develop customized workout programs that fit their needs. Joanna has been a perfect fit in our fitness center and she is one of our greatest assets.”
Fedick plans to attain her pro card in triathlon during the 2011 season. With her weakness being in the swim portion of the competition, she is focusing a considerable amount of her training on becoming a more efficient swimmer.
In 2008, Fedick was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. This diagnosis was challenging athletically as well as personally. “I had never felt so miserable and helpless, which is not a normal feeling for a person in their twenties,” Fedick said.
However, Fedick worked with her rheumatologist to find a medication routine to stabilize her symptoms. Now, she eats healthy, exercises consistently and is back to her normal self. Fedick continues to enjoy the fun and challenging triathlons in which she participates. For those interested in becoming involved in triathlons, she recommends finding a local club to join. Clubs can help you get started by suggesting safe bike routes, racing tips and provide group training opportunities.
“The other thing I would suggest is to just go for it if you are thinking about trying one [triathlon],” Fedick said. “They are fun and almost anyone can complete one.”
As fitness coordinator of the SWC, Fedick helps members and OSU faculty and staff to get started with exercise and create a plan for a specific exercise goal in order to be healthy.
“Exercise makes you feel good, gives you a sense of accomplishment and helps you clear your mind,” Fedick said. “If everyone focused 30 minutes per day on themselves with exercise, our world would be a happier and healthier place.”
The OSU Seretean Wellness Center’s mission is to help people achieve a balance of physical and mental health. The Center supports this mission by housing the Employee Assistance Program, Employee Health Clinic and O-Zone Fitness Center, and by offering a variety of services including nutrition counseling, massage therapy, health risk assessments and many more. For more information about fitness options offered at the SWC, please contact Joanna at 405.744.2176 or Joanna.fedick@okstate.edu.