Wellness Champions

Twenty-one years ago, when Babette “Babs” Baker was in her mid-40’s and an employee in the Art and Art History Department, she would have to rest after vacuuming because of pain from her arthritis. She was encouraged by Christine Mermier, a graduate student at that time, to attend Employee Health Promotion (EHP) fitness classes, and work on her flexibility and strength. Back then, Babs lived in Rio Rancho, so attending the 6:30 am classes was quite a commitment. However, she stuck with it and began to gain more flexibility and energy while reducing her pain.

Soon the morning fitness routine evolved to include an activity Babs had wanted to try: swimming. Not knowing how to swim did not faze Babs. She started with a water aerobics class, received some help from another graduate student, and learned how to swim. She initially set a short-term goal of swimming “five laps without stopping.” Today she swims 30-40 minutes without stopping.

In her mid-50’s, Babs bought a bike with her tax return. The first time out since childhood, she managed to wobble half a block before she stopped in a parking lot to regroup. Today, she rides 20-25 mile, though she has conquered up to 65 miles, at one time.