Spotlights
Pam & Clark Wells
Pam and Clark Wells are professors in the Department of Mathematics at Grand Valley State University. Pam primarily teaches mathematics courses for future elementary teachers, focusing on both content and pedagogy, while Clark teaches primarily calculus and advanced courses for mathematics majors. Both are involved on campus. Pam works with incoming students through freshman orientation and Clark is currently involved with the administration of the department of Mathematics’ WeBWork online homework system software.
Pam had been exercising on her own at the Fieldhouse and over
time, began participating in faculty and staff Group Exercise Classes at the suggestion of her
Priority Health Coach and a Faculty colleague. After a semester, Clark
also began utilizing the classes. The husband and wife team often
attend classes together, like strength training, yoga, and TRX
training. This gives them a little bit of competition against one
another. One of their children has even signed on to a Yoga class
making it an affair for the whole family.
Though competition between each other is motivating, additional
motivation comes from instructors who give them an extra push. Each
class encourages them to try new things and allows them to stay in
control of healthy habits. Outside of exercise classes, Clark also
uses meditation and breathing exercises to practice mindfulness. Pam’s positive energy
comes from playing with her dogs, reading and getting her workouts in.
Keeping a work schedule allows the Wells family to attend Group
Exercise classes and to keep up with the family’s needs.
Pam aspires to be fit and strong (she’d love to have arms like
Michelle Obama). As for Clark, he would like to stay in shape, because
at one point, he was close to being considered pre-diabetic. After
attending these classes and changing his lifestyle, Clark is no longer
on that path. Considering their nutrition as well, the Wells do not
deprive themselves of certain foods, but keep everything in
moderation. Both are mindful of the amount of refined carbohydrates
they consume. Their advice for others who would like to get in shape:
find a workout buddy, set a schedule, try something new, and take it
one step at a time.
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