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Ellington resident heads Hartford HealthCare GoodLife Fitness

April 17, 2018

Exercise physiologist Emil Johnson was recently named the new manager of Hartford HealthCare’s GoodLife Fitness program. GoodLife Fitness is an individualized exercise program geared toward older adults to build energy, strength and endurance for an active and independent lifestyle. Johnson began his position on Jan. 8.

GoodLife Fitness is offered in eight locations: Bloomfield, New Britain, Newington (two sites), Southington (three sites) and Willimantic. In addition to serving as program manager, Johnson is the exercise specialist at GoodLife Fitness at Jefferson House, a short-term/outpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing and palliative care community located at 1 John H. Stewart Drive.

Participants in GoodLife Fitness first receive their physician’s approval before working with an exercise professional to develop their wellness goals. The focus of GoodLife Fitness includes improving muscular strength, balance, cardiovascular health and self-esteem, while reducing the risk of falls and injuries. Individuals receive ongoing feedback and encouragement while realizing an improved sense of overall well-being and activity performance. People of all abilities are welcome.

Prior to his position with Hartford HealthCare, Johnson was a strength and conditioning coach or director at numerous educational institutions including Yale University, University of Hartford, University of Maine and DePaul University in Chicago. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Exercise Physiology at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. His professional affiliations include the National Strength and Conditioning Association and USA Weightlifting. He is certified by both of these organizations as a strength and conditioning specialist, and weightlifting coach. He has also presented at numerous strength summits and clinics.

“It’s very rewarding to help our older clients improve their strength and fitness levels to enhance their quality of life. I look forward to continuing to grow and expand the GoodLife Fitness program,” he said.

Johnson resides in Ellington with his wife Ann and their four children.

For more information about GoodLife Fitness, visit hhcseniorservices.org/health-wellness/goodlife-fitness.