We all strive to be healthy. Staying active, having energy to accomplish our dreams and goals, and feeling our best while doing it.
Depending on our age or stage of life, “healthy” means something different to each of us. In my 20s, it meant looking a certain way or hitting a number on the scale. Now, it’s more about functional mobility and mental health; being able to enjoy a full life that is free of aches and pains.
From exercise and self-care to keeping key numbers in a normal range, there are many ways we can make healthy living part of our lifestyle. That’s why we’ve gathered some of the most trusted minds in Hoover to help guide us through advice for staying on top of our physical and mental well-being.
No matter where you are in your health journey - from just getting started to living your best life each day - within these pages, you’ll find something written just for you.
We hope this special edition of Healthy in Hoover becomes your go-to guide for finding trusted healthcare professionals and discovering spaces, places and faces to support your healthy, active lifestyle.
And we want to hear from you! Contact any one of our team members to share your favorite “Healthy in Hoover” tip or featured business or professional.
Here’s to Healthy Living in Hoover!
Kim Cripps, Editor
of Alabama.
Photos courtesy of Lance Shores, City of Hoover
ABOUT US
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Content may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher.
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P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham, AL (205) 883-1877 www.jbmcmedia.com
Veterans Park on Valleydale Road features a 40’ x 40’ fitness court. The court opened in 2023 and is a partnership between the City of Hoover and BlueCross BlueShield
Hoover Recreation Center: Building a Healthy Community
By Kim Cripps
The Hoover Recreation Center, nestled near Hoover’s Senior Center, Public Library and City Hall, offers residents of all ages a friendly place to exercise, swim and attend special events, all while building meaningful connections with their neighbors.
“The Hoover Recreation Center has a very warm, welcoming vibe,” said Ryan Cavender, the recreation manager who oversees the operations of the Hoover Recreation Center. “Our team makes an effort to get to know our members by name. Many of our members know each other from training together over the years, and our newer members immediately pick up on the connectivity of the community.”
Operated by the City of Hoover Parks and Recreation Department, the Hoover Rec Center has an impressive range of amenities to support an active lifestyle for residents of all fitness levels and interests. An expansive gym features cardio machines – including numerous treadmills, stationary bikes, and ellipticals – plus plenty of
The Hoover Recreation Center’s pool is heated to 86 degrees year-round, and it has the only indoor high dive in the city.
The rec center’s fitness equipment, including cardio and weight machines and free weights, spans four rooms. Cardio and personal training are located upstairs near the walking track, while most weight equipment is located downstairs.
options for strength-training, ranging from singlestation equipment to free weights.
For members seeking a more structured approach to fitness, or who may need extra encouragement along the way, group exercise classes and personal trainers are also available.
The Hoover Rec Center offers a robust selection of group classes daily, including yoga, HIIT, cycling and many more, with some classes beginning as early as 5:30 a.m. Certified trainers can assist in developing customized exercise routines to help meet specific fitness goals or serve as a guide if going to the gym feels intimidating.
Aquatics is another major highlight of the center. The 8-lane indoor pool maintains a constant 85 degrees year-round. It hosts lap swimmers, aquatic fitness classes, and family swim times throughout the week. Water-based exercise is especially popular among members looking for a low-impact workout that still improves strength, endurance and flexibility.
“We have something for everyone in every age group and at every fitness level,“ shared Cavender. “There is a dedicated crowd ready to swim laps every morning, and when they are getting out of the pool, the water aerobics class is getting in. There are yoga and cycle classes during times when childcare is available, and we offer swim lessons for children and adults. There are members who come in during their lunch break to play basketball, then come back after work to lift weights.
Beyond the fitness floor and pool, the Hoover Rec Center is home to a variety of indoor courts and activity spaces. Racquetball, basketball, volleyball, and pickleball are regular fixtures on the recreation schedule, too, drawing both competitive players and casual participants. Members also enjoy the stateof-the-art, cushioned indoor walking track. The track is elevated, overlooks the pool and is surrounded by windows letting in plenty of natural light. ”Many of our members get their steps in every day by walking
on the track,” said Cavender.
For all the benefits the Hoover Rec Center offers, its membership remains very competitively priced. Seniors receive a discounted membership, which includes access to the Senior Center, conveniently located just a minute away by car.
Even more than the affordable rates, the array of fitness classes and variety of cardio and strength training equipment, there is something else that keeps members coming back again and again: the friendly staff. More than 250 Google reviews, and 4.6 stars, continually mention a team that is accommodating, helpful, professional and welcoming. As one member noted, “I really love the sense of community here, both from the members and the staff…[They] care about you not just as a member but as a person.”
The Hoover Recreation Center is located at 600 Municipal Drive, Hoover, AL 35216. Hours are Monday – Thursday from 5:00 am - 9:00 pm, Friday from 5:00 am - 6:00 pm, Saturday from 8:00 am6:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm. For more information, call 205-444-7703.
The four-lane elevated track measures 1/8 of a mile and reserves specific lanes for walking and running. It overlooks the heated pool and the newly renovated gymnasium.
Kenyada Ramsey welcomes guests to the Hoover Recreation Center. The rec center is highly rated for its friendly, helpful and professional staff.
Ryan Canvender, City of Hoover Parks and Recreation Manager, overlooks the newly renovated gymnasium, which features basketball and pickleball courts.
Modern Medicine Meets Vintage Values
In an industry where patients increasingly feel rushed and unheard, Dr. Joseph Wu is restoring long-forgotten values to today’s medical practice. Values like unhurried appointments, personalized care, home visits, connection and trust.
For almost 20 years, Dr. Wu served Birminghamarea patients in internal and outpatient medicine, most notably at Simon-Williamson Clinic located on the Princeton Baptist campus.
When burnout caused him to go in a new direction, he saw an opportunity to do things differently; a way to provide his patients with the care they deserved, and without the hassle that comes from dealing directly with insurance.
“I had close to 3,000 patients. This led to very fast visits, and I couldn’t give my patients the time they needed,” shared Dr. Wu. “In an industry that’s become more about profit margins than patient care, starting Brightmark Health was a perfect solution.”
Brightmark Health, located off Tyler Road, just minutes outside of Bluff Park, provides exceptional and comprehensive primary care with transparent, affordable prices.
As a board-certified concierge internal medicine doctor, Dr. Wu can focus on getting to know and connecting with his patients. More one-on-one time means more time for problem-solving. “In insurance, it’s easier to manage symptoms than to get to the root of a patient’s issue,” he said. “But I can deep dive into the ‘why’ behind the ‘what.’
Dr. Wu added that longer, more thorough appointments can keep more serious problems from developing in the first place, especially for patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and memory problems.
MYTH VS. TRUTH IN CONCIERGE HEALTHCARE
Myth: Concierge doctors are expensive. Truth: Brightmark Health’s monthly memberships start at $50 per person, much less than the cost of most monthly insurance premiums—and there’s no high deductible to meet or long-term contract to sign. Plus, our costs for exams, labs, imaging, etc., represent the real cost of the procedure, not inflated prices marked up for insurance.
Myth: I’m paying extra just to be seen! Truth: Membership provides you with healthcare the way it was meant to be, with 24/7 access to Dr. Wu (including the possibility of house calls). Our patients enjoy quick and efficient scheduling, one-on-one time with Dr. Wu, and a personal, customized approach to medicine that can deliver maximum results in minimal time.
Myth: Concierge healthcare replaces insurance. I don’t want to be without insurance!
Truth: The vast majority of our patients still have health insurance, which is needed for hospitalizations, surgeries and specialists. Some of our patients choose to use their insurance to cover their lab work with us, although many find paying cash, out-of-pocket prices for labs to be just as affordable as filing through insurance.
In addition to Brightmark’s convenient location, affordable prices and quick access to care, Dr. Wu says there’s one benefit that stands out above the rest: “It makes a difference having someone you know and trust take care of you. With Brightmark, you’re not just getting a doctor. You’re getting a friend.”
Give us a call today (where a real person will answer) to schedule a free, no-obligation 20-minute consultation. We look forward to providing you with great, personalized medical care.
(205) 900-0888
What should someone look for when trying to find the right gym or fitness center?
“When choosing a fitness center, ask yourself two key questions: Does the gym offer services that support your goals, and is it conveniently located? If your goal is weight loss, look for options like nutrition guidance or calorie-burning classes. If you want to build muscle, ensure the gym has proper equipment or strength training programs. Finally, consider location— choosing a gym near your home or workplace makes it easier to stay consistent with your workouts.”
– Sean Thompson, Owner of Thompson Fitness
Thompson Fitness offers small group training, personal training, and a free e-newsletter with workouts, nutrition tips and more. They understand that committing to a gym can be a big investment, both personally and financially, which is why they offer a money-back guarantee if you don’t see the results you want.
HOOVER’S TOP TEN
Get a great workout - and plug into an encouraging community - at these five-star gyms and fitness studios, as rated by real clients.
BODYBAR Pilates 5856 Elsie Road Hoover, AL 35266 bodybarpilates.com
Burn Boot Camp 1021 Brocks Gap Parkway Suite 121 Hoover, AL 35244 burnbootcamp.com
Fit People 3435 S Shades Crest Suite 101 Hoover, AL 35244 unleashyourfit.com
ISI Elite Training 5866 Elsie Road Hoover, AL 35226 isielitetraining.com
OTM Fitness 1581 Montgomery Highway Suite 113 Hoover, AL 35226 otm-fitness.com
Phase Gym Bluff Park 2153 Clearbrook Road Hoover, AL 35226 phasegym.com
Pivot Fitness 5529 Grove Boulevard Hoover, AL 35226
Pure Barre 1870 Chace Drive Hoover, AL 35244 purebarre.com
SDG Fitness & Health 767 Shades Mountain Plaza Hoover, AL 35226 solideogloriafitness.com
Thompson Fitness 2341 John Hawkins Parkway Suite 137 Hoover, AL 35224 tfit205.com
UAB Medical West Brings Passionate Care Closer to Home
“The new UAB Medical West facility is a place to go for wellness as opposed to going for illness. The healing is more than just the medicine—it’s everything around you.”
— Keith Pennington, UAB Medical West CEO
The brand-new UAB Medical West campus features a 200-bed, 9-story Level III trauma center and a corresponding 7-story medical office building.
Located in McCalla right off of I-459, this location provides more services than ever before in a beautiful, modern environment. Combining the personalized care of a community hospital with the cutting-edge resources of a leading academic medical center, UAB Medical West patients can enjoy the same high-quality care across the hospital system. “As a rural hospital, having direct access to UAB’s network of specialists, advanced technology, and comprehensive care means our patients don’t have to travel far to receive worldclass treatment,” says Keith Pennington, UAB Medical West CEO.
“The new UAB Medical West facility is a place to go for wellness as opposed to going for illness,” the CEO explains. “The healing is more than just the medicine—it’s everything around you.” This philosophy extends to the facility’s design, which physicians say actively contributes to healing. “The aesthetically pleasing environment that’s also state-of-the-art plays a big role in patient treatment and recovery,” says Dr. Matthew Reed, General Surgeon at UAB Medical West.
The new facility showcases cutting-edge medical technology including robotic surgery
capabilities and state-of-the-art imaging technology. Ultimately, UAB Medical West fulfills a promise to the residents of West Jefferson County that UAB’s trusted, quality care should be accessible to everyone. The UAB Medical West campus goes beyond accessibility by setting the care in an environment of comfort and convenience
“This is a win for our patients, our local economy, and our community as a whole,” says Pennington. “UAB Medical West is proud to be part of UAB Medicine. Together, we’re improving lives—right here at home.”
To learn more about services available at UAB Medical West or to schedule an appointment, visit: MEDICALWESTHOSPITAL.ORG
5000 Medical West Way, Bessemer, AL 35022
At UAB Medical West, our number one priority is to offer quality, convenient care for those in West Jefferson County, AL. Currently offering emergency care, 11 primary & specialty care locations in your community, and a brand new state-of-the-art hospital with the latest imaging and surgical technology, UAB Medical West is committed to being here for you and your entire family. It’s one more way we can offer quality, compassionate care near you. We’re
State-of-the-Art Solutions for Venous Disease
At a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility in Hoover, patients with venous disease can find relief from varicose veins and spider veins, as well as the leg pain, swelling and chronic wounds that can accompany these challenging diagnoses.
Alabama Vein and Restoration MedSpa began in the early 2000s. The practice was initially founded by Dr. John Kingsley in Vestavia and called Alabama Vein and Vascular Center. Then, around 2008, Dr. Kingsley recruited Dr. Charles Hunt to join his practice. Following Dr. Kingsley’s passing, his family entrusted Dr. Hunt with carrying on the practice—and the mission.
Expanding on Dr. Kingsley’s legacy of excellence and innovation, Dr. Hunt relocated to a new facility off Highway 31 in Hoover, added additional services for robust treatment options, and chose the name Alabama Vein and Restoration MedSpa to adequately reflect the clinic’s growth.
Patients primarily come to Dr. Hunt for state-of-theart care in the management of venous disease and its many complications. However, he emphasized that it’s a priority to consider each patient’s whole health picture before moving forward with treatment.
“Our core focus remains treating venous disease and its complications,” said Dr. Hunt. “From there, we expanded to offer services that complement vein care and enhance overall wellness.”
Available MedSpa and wellness treatments are delivered by highly trained and dedicated providers who take pride in offering thoughtful, tailored care. They range from cosmetic sclerotherapy, hormone replacement therapy, and weight loss therapy to a variety of MedSpa services that work to improve health, boost confidence, and let patients enjoy a bit of pampering along the way.
“Alabama Vein and Restoration MedSpa is more than just a medical office—we’re a place where patients are treated like family,” shared Dr. Hunt. “Whether you’re seeking relief from vein disease, a path to better overall health, or simply a chance to look and feel your best, we’re here to support you every step of the way.”
Find Compassionate Vein Care
We pride ourselves on combining advanced medical expertise with personalized, compassionate care to serve patients at every stage of life.
When you call Alabama Vein and Restoration MedSpa, you won’t get an answering service or automated system—a real person answers. Our patients also have direct, after-hours access to Dr. Hunt. And, to help reduce travel burdens, care is also provided through satellite offices in Anniston and Tuscaloosa.
What is a MedSpa?
A MedSpa allows patients to combine medical expertise with spa-like services. While Alabama Vein and Restoration MedSpa focuses on treating and managing venous diseases, patients enjoy the expanded services that complement vein care and enhance overall wellness. These include:
• Medical Treatments: Hormone replacement therapy and weight loss therapy, in addition to varicose vein treatment and cosmetic sclerotherapy.
• MedSpa Services: Facials, chemical peels, laser treatments, neurotoxin and filler, and PlateletRich Plasma (PRP) for skin rejuvenation, scar reduction and wound healing.
Dr. Charles Hunt said you do not need to be a vein patient to use the MedSpa, hormone replacement therapy or weight loss services. “It’s about improving health, boosting confidence, and enjoying a bit of pampering along the way,” he added.
Alabama Vein & Restoration Medspa
A premier destination for innovative care
The legacy of world-renowned sports medicine surgeon and pioneer Dr. James R. Andrews is thriving right here in Hoover.
Dr. Andrews practiced orthopaedics for decades in Columbus, Georgia, and moved to Birmingham in 1986 to practice medicine with Healthsouth, later co-founding Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center in 2007. Over time, his commitment to excellence has earned him – and his mentees and colleagues – a reputation for providing world-class care to athletes and active individuals of all ages.
Because of Dr. Andrews, Birmingham solidified its place as one of the nation’s premier destinations for sports medicine and orthopaedics. And now, Hoover’s youth athletes, weekend warriors, professional players and active adults can find incredible care close to home.
“We offer same-day or next-day appointments for most acute injuries,” shared Dr. Matthew Beidleman, non-surgical sports medicine physician for Andrews Sports Medicine. This makes it possible for patients to have convenient access to Dr. Andrew’s research-backed, comprehensive, patient-centered model of care.
Today, a team of highly-trained non-surgical sports medicine physicians and orthopaedic surgeons implements Dr. Andrews’ vision by providing world-class care to athletes and active individuals of all ages. Using advancements in innovation, research, education and sports injury prevention from the American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI), they bring breakthrough findings directly to their clinical practice.
Dr. Andrews co-founded ASMI in 1986 to improve the understanding, prevention, and treatment of sports-related injuries through research and education. For decades, ASMI clinical research has helped Andrews Sports Medicine patients benefit from the latest breakthroughs in sports medicine science and orthopaedic expertise.
And Andrews’ physicians are serious when it
Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Services
Andrews Sports Medicine’s team of 24 highly specialized physicians offers a comprehensive range of sports medicine and orthopaedic services. The team includes one non-surgical spine specialist, nine non-surgical sports medicine physicians, and 14 orthopaedic surgeons with sub-specialties in:
• Foot and Ankle
• Hand and Wrist
• Hip Preservation
• Interventional Spine
• Joint Replacement
• Sports Medicine
• Spine PLUS
• Concussion Management
• Occupational & Hand Therapy
• Regenerative Medicine (PRP and Biologics)
comes to being part of a team. As leaders in their specialties, they have deep ties to the Alabama sports community—serving as team physicians for more than 55 high schools and middle schools, as well as colleges and professional teams across the state, including the Alabama Crimson Tide, Auburn Tigers and Samford Bulldogs.
Get Seen Fast
From middle school football players to grandparents seeking a hip or knee replacement, Andrews Sports Medicine wants to help each patient safely get back to enjoying their favorite sports and activities. That’s why access to convenient care is of the utmost importance.
Andrews Sports Medicine offers same-day and next-day appointments for acute sports injuries at two Hoover clinics. Located on Highway 150 near Lake Crest and Highway 280 in Greystone, patients can receive world-class orthopaedic care, close to home.
Hoover Youth Sports
There are many opportunities for children to get involved in youth sports through the City of Hoover’s Parks and Recreation Department. In pre-K, boys and girls can begin honing their skills, while kindergarten through high school students can enjoy the camaraderie and community of belonging to a competitive team.
For more information and to register, go to hooveralabama.gov/389/Youth-Sports
YEAR ROUND
Start Smart Sports Development Program
Open to boys and girls ages 3-6. Parents and children attend hour-long classes weekly for five weeks. By practicing together, parents and children spend quality time together. Parents also learn how to best teach and support their children in sports.
• Basketball: Offered in January and February
• Soccer: Offered in March and April
• T-Ball: Offered in April and May
• Tennis: Offered in September and October
FALL SPORTS
Flag Football
Open to boys and girls in grades K-8.
Requires registration and player evaluation. Registration is open in the summer, and practice and games are in the fall.
Youth Volleyball
Open to girls in grades 4-12. Requires registration and player evaluation. Registration is open in the summer, and practice and games are in the fall.
WINTER SPORTS
Basketball
Open to boys and girls in grades K-12.
Requires registration and player evaluation. Registration is open in the fall, and practice and games are in the winter.
Hoover is also home to additional youth sports organizations that are endorsed by, but run separately from, the City of Hoover’s Parks and Recreation programs. These include teams for:
• Baseball
• Cheerleading
• Competitive Basketball
• Diving
• Football
• Lacrosse
• Soccer
• Softball
• Swimming
• Wrestling
Youth tennis is offered through the City of Hoover’s Parks and Recreation Department Start Smart Program in September and October. Lessons for all ages, including adults, are available year-round through a partnership with Edge Tennis.
Photo by Allison Carpenter
TherapySouth
Meet TherapySouth—a physical therapistowned and operated practice. A commitment to six core values provides an encouraging atmosphere of collaboration and best practices where patients can find physical relief from pain, illness and injury.
What can patients expect from TherapySouth?
Our company incorporates six core values into everything we do: faith, family, integrity, service, compassion, and giving. We take these values seriously, as they guide us in providing personalized, hands-on care.
Because each patient’s circumstances are unique, we set therapy goals based on best practices, as well as individualized needs and abilities. We’re here to come alongside you, help you be your best, and optimize your recovery. We’ve noticed firsthand that this patient-focused approach enables our clients to heal physically, as well as emotionally and spiritually.
What services does TherapySouth offer?
We offer services that range from prevention to post-op recovery. Therapists offer injury prevention measures, pain management and healing, balance strengthening, and support for chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, lymphedema and swelling. Specialists are available for pelvic floor therapy, hand therapy and more.
An annual physical therapy screening encourages a healthier lifestyle—and gives you an expert to call on when needed.
Where is TherapySouth located?
We have 50 locations in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. Steve Foster founded TherapySouth in Birmingham in 2006 and quickly expanded. Today, we have three locations in Hoover: Highway 31, South Shades Crest and Riverchase.
WHO IS YOUR PT? WHO IS YOUR PT?
Just as regular check-ups with your doctor and dentist keep you healthy, regular visits with your physical therapist can help you move better and feel stronger
At TherapySouth, we believe in building relationships that last a lifetime e don’t just treat pain e help you work through obstacles, meet your goals, and get back to doing the things you love hen scheduling your annual health appointments, remember: physical therapy deserves a spot on your calendar too
Scan the QR code to schedule an appointment today
Julianna Nelms is a licensed esthetician who is passionate about helping others feel confident from the inside out.
A Helena native and graduate of the Aveda Institute in Hoover, she opened Sweet Magnolia Day Spa with two goals: to address her clients’ skin concerns and empower them to be comfortable in their own skin.
Sweet Magnolia Day Spa offers customizable facials, waxing, lash and brow services. “Every treatment is completely personalized,” said Julianna. “Here, you will always be more than a name on a schedule book.”
Why is skin care an important part of a healthy routine?
Julianna’s Advice:
Take time to learn about your skin and how to care for it. You’ll love the confidence you feel when you can appreciate your skin, with and without make-up.
Our skin is our body’s first line of defense against the outside world. When the effects of stress, the environment, or lifestyle show up on our skin, it can impact our confidence.
I experienced that frustration with my own skin. It’s why I enrolled in Aveda - to better understand my skin, learn how to care for it and feel more confident.
I found others were frustrated with their skin, too. Helping people care for their skin was really rewarding, and I knew I would eventually open my own day spa to serve the community.
GLOWING SKIN IS WAITING
What inspired you to open Sweet Magnolia Day Spa this year?
After graduating from Aveda, I was hired at my dream jobproviding esthetician services at a top-rated dermatologist’s office. However, it was difficult to find childcare for my early morning or evening shifts. My family and Aveda instructors encouraged me to move forward with opening the day spa. It has been incredible to see the change in my clients after just one treatment! When they look in the mirror, I can already tell they have more confidence in their skin.
What day spa service do clients request again and again?
The Signature Dermaplaning Facial is the most popular! My clients really enjoy getting dual results: soft, glowing, revitalized skin from dermaplaning, and a radiant, smooth complexion from the facial. My personal favorite is the Hydrafacial. It uses serums to deep clean your pores and exfoliate your skin. After the facial, you will immediately notice how bright, plump and clear your skin is!
Sweet Magnolia Day Spa
Southlake
Dr. William Krauss makes it his mission to get to the root cause of his patients’ foot and ankle pain, often without surgery.
Originally from Ohio, he completed his foot and ankle fellowship at the American Sports Medicine Institute before practicing in Tuscaloosa, and returning permanently to Birmingham in 2006. As part of his training, he became the second foot and ankle surgeon in Alabama at the time.
Today, Dr. Krauss is celebrating 20 years at Southlake and remains committed to ensuring he and his team are doing the best they can to get their patients back to less pain and more living.
Who are your patients at Southlake?
Anyone can be seen at Southlake; we have patients age 1 to 100!
Most of my patients are suffering from some type of foot or ankle pain. When your feet hurt, everything hurts! We can find solutions to bunions, as well as pain caused by the position and alignment in the foot and ankle, ankle sprains, fractures and other types of foot pain. It is especially rewarding to help patients who have been searching for relief from long-term symptoms, or who need a reconstruction because of a failed surgery.
Do most patients have to have surgery to heal their pain?
One misconception about orthopedic pain is that it always results in surgery. But, most of our patients do not need surgery. We can successfully get to the cause of the pain and treat it at the source using bracing, physical therapy and medication. We offer all those services, and imaging, here in the office, so patients do not have to go anywhere else.
What additional services does Southlake provide?
We treat musculoskeletal injuries and pain in any joint in the body. Our treatment plans range from non-operative options, like physical and occupational therapy, to pain injections and surgical procedures. We also offer on-site MRIs and X-rays, radiology services, support braces and weight loss management.
Dr. Krauss’s Advice:
Look for a physician who specializes in your specific problem. They can help identify the root cause of your pain and treat it at the source, usually without surgery. Plus, if you can treat it early, it will save you time, money and frustration down the road.
Hitting the Trails and Parks in Hoover
BY KIM CRIPPS
Recently ranked one of the best places to live in the U.S., it offers a wealth of opportunities for health and fitness. Perhaps one of the most surprising things about this suburban city is its expansive outdoor scene.
With more than 30 parks and over 600 acres of parkland, Hoover makes it possible to experience the beauty of Mother Nature without having to travel far. Children enjoy feeding baby ducklings every spring at Aldridge Gardens, while thrill-seekers want the adrenaline of the bumps and jumps of Black Creek Mountain Bike Park. Hikers and leisurely explorers can discover waterfalls, boulders, and even a good stretch of paved, flat trails.
Find your favorite Hoover park, and let time in nature become part of your daily life.
Black Creek Mountain Bike Park
Photo by Allison Carpenter
ALDRIDGE GARDENS
Thirty acres of woodland gardens, complete with a five-acre lake and walking trails. Tour the gardens, birdwatch, feed the ducks or walk peacefully through nature.
Hours: Daily from 8 am–7 pm
Address: 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover, AL 35216
Contact: (205) 739-6558
BLACK CREEK MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK
This 73-acre mountain bike park, opened in 2019, offers five miles of trails built into natural terrain. There are trails for riders of all levels.
Situated behind Shades Mountain Elementary, there is a small playground with restroom access and walking trails. A creek flows near the trail as well.
Address: 1121 Blue Ridge Boulevard, Hoover, AL 35226
BLUFF PARK COMMUNITY PARK
A public playground surrounded by shade trees, plus restrooms for anyone to use. There is a pool, but it does require a membership.
Address: 517 Cloudland Drive, Hoover, AL, 35226
CAHABA RIVERCHASE GREENWAY TRAILHEAD
A half-mile asphalt trail that winds through an open field, shady pine thicket and over two bridges along the Cahaba River. No restrooms on site.
Address: 1930 Old Montgomery Highway, Hoover, AL, 35244
EXPLORE PLAYGROUND AND SPLASH PAD
Open to the public and free of charge. There is a playground for all ages and abilities, and a large splash pad all fenced in together. Restrooms and parking are plentiful.
Hours: Daily from 9 am–7 pm
Address: 1060 RV Trace, Hoover, AL, 35244
FLEMMING PARK ON THE CAHABA & CAHABA RIVER BOAT LAUNCH
A peaceful blend of green spaces, hiking and biking trails, and a boat launch that provides easy access to the Cahaba River.
Address: 3356 Trip Run, Hoover, AL 35244
Aldridge Gardens
Photo by Lance Shores
GEORGETOWN PARK
A three-acre lake surrounded by a track under the lights. The track is made up of asphalt and a wooden walkway that is roughly a third of a mile in length. There is a playground and first-come, first-served grills and gazebos.
Address: 2224 Myrtlewood Drive, Hoover, AL 35216
INVERNESS PARK AND NATURE TRAIL + DISC GOLF
Seventy-seven acres of forested park. Peace and quiet, hiking trails, streams and picnic areas are plentiful. An eighteen-hole disc golf course is there, featuring a variety of shot options for all skill levels.
Hours: Daily from 6 am–8 pm
Address: 272 Inverness Parkway, Hoover, AL 35242
LOCH HAVEN PARK & DOG PARK
A seventeen-acre dog park for an off-leash experience for small and large dogs alike. It includes a canine obstacle course, a halfmile walking track and a playground.
Address: 3469 Loch Haven Drive, Hoover, AL 35216
MOSS ROCK PRESERVE
A 349-acre nature preserve full of large rock outcroppings, streams and waterfalls. It contains about twelve miles of hiking trails, plus Boulder Field—a favorite among rock climbers.
Address: 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, AL 35226
ROSS BRIDGE HISTORICAL PARK
A local park featuring a playground, dense woods and a Civil War era bridge. The trail is about two miles down and back.
Hours: Daily from 7 am–8 pm
Address: Ross Bridge Parkway, Hoover, AL 35226
RUSSET WOODS PARK
A secluded and quiet small neighborhood park with a playground, pavilion and small walking trail.
Address: 105 Top O Tree Lane, Hoover, AL 35244
STAR LAKE
The park is located adjacent to the Hoover Country Club and Golf Course. There is a large picnic area, public parking, and a .4 mile walking trail around a four-acre lake. Address: Star Lake Drive, Hoover, AL 35216
VETERANS PARK
An eighty-two-acre park complete with a 5K cross country trail, playgrounds, beach volleyball courts, two pavilions and a Veterans’ Memorial. There is also a four-acre lake, a one-acre pond and walking trails.
Hours: Daily from 5 am–8 pm
Address: 4800 Valleydale Road, Hoover, AL 35242
Moss Rock Preserve
Photo by Allison Carpenter
A beloved staple in Hoover’s pediatric healthcare scene, Greenvale Pediatrics has encouraged health and wellness among children and families in the community for more than 50 years.
What is Greenvale Pediatrics’ history in Hoover?
Originally founded in 1974 in Hoover by Drs. David Glasgow and Donald Palmer, Greenvale Pediatrics (Greenvale) has a history rooted in community care. Initially an independent practice, it was purchased by Children’s of Alabama in 1996. Today, Greenvale provides care to newborns through college-aged patients at offices in Hoover, Brook Highland and Alabaster.
Why do generations of patients and families keep coming back?
Greenvale has a recognized commitment to patient-centered care, earning the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient Centered Medical Home certification in 2013. We’ve been successfully recertified since then.
In 2024, the practice celebrated 50 years of pediatric healthcare with a special appearance by founder Dr. David Glasgow.
Where are Greenvale Pediatrics’ offices located?
Greenvale-Hoover is located at 5295 Preserve Parkway, Suite 100, Hoover, 35244. Hoover physicians are: Toren Anderson, Dan Carter, Brian Dudgeon, Taylor McClanahan, Sarah Spencer, Julia Stewart, Jeffery Stone and Drew Wright.
Greenvale-Brook Highland is located at 101 Eagle Ridge Drive, Birmingham, 35242. Brook Highland physicians include: Tracey Butcher, Clayton Dugan, Elizabeth Irons, Jennifer Joseph, Darby McElderry, Kelly McMillian, and Anna White.
Greenvale-Alabaster is located at 1022 1st Street North, Suite 102, Alabaster, 35007. Physicians at the Alabaster office are: Clayton Buie, Drew Buie, Jessica Gutman, Ian Flaniken, Joseph Jolly, Kami Sester and Todd Washko.
Doctor’s Orders! Our pediatricians recommend well-child visits from infancy through adolescence. Not only do these visits allow a pediatrician to evaluate your child’s physical, mental, and social development, but they also build a trust that helps children and young adults be open and honest about their health and well-being.
GREENVALE PEDIATRICS
Soli Deo Gloria Fitness and Health
Group Exercise with a Greater Purpose
Soli Deo Gloria. To God alone be the glory.
That’s what Soli Deo Gloria Fitness and Health owner Abby Allen, wants her clients to remember each time they attend a class at her Bluff Park studio. After all, her fitness classes began as a local church wellness ministry – and will continue to have God at the center.
“The heart of this is a ministry,” said Abby. “It’s how I get to be the Lord’s hands and feet. This is my purpose and how I serve others.”
At SDG, the gym’s walls are adorned with scripture verses that were chosen by Abby’s clients. A GroupMe features devotionals and exercise challenges with a spiritual component. Both speak to SDG’s origins as a group Bible study that morphed into community workouts at a church gym, and continues to serve members from Hoover and beyond.
While Abby wants to encourage her clients to better themselves physically and spiritually, she added that it’s also important for her studio to be a safe place to try new things, even if that means failing. “It’s important for people to be seen, loved and met where they are,” she said.
One of the ways she shows love for her clients is through celebratory birthday workouts. Leading up to the big day, a client can share with Abby if they want to do a special workout on their birthday. It can be themed to certain music, include reps that mimic their age, or be built around a favorite exercise, like the “Climb to 40” Cardio workout she created for a recent milestone birthday.
For Abby, SDG’s daily workout classes and personalized nutrition plans are an extension of her career as a pediatrician. She became certified in personal training and nutrition in 2020 so that she could educate her patients and their families on how to eat better and fuel their bodies affordably.
Now, she gets to spend her days living out her calling in the health and wellness space in different places and through different forms. When asked how she balances her work as a pediatrician with the fitness studio, she points back to the people and the community she serves. “I have an amazing spouse who serves in and out of the home, children who are living their purpose, and friends who can fill in the gaps. My pediatric practice also supports and encourages what I do.” Though ultimately, she says it all comes down to living her purpose, the Lord’s will, and His perfect timing.
FIND THE WORKOUT FOR YOU
SDG’s workout schedule is released every Sunday on Instagram and Facebook. Each week brings different workouts, and the order in which they are offered changes, too. This ensures you never have the same workout twice!
Classes are held Monday through Thursday at 5 am, 6 am, 8:30 am, and 4:30 pm; on Fridays at 5 am, 6 am, and 8:30 am; and on Saturday at 6 am, 7 am, and 8 am.
For class schedules, special events and updates, follow SDG on Instagram @sdgfitness_health
SDG Fitness and Health offers community workouts with a greater purpose. Join us in our Bluff Park studio—where you’ll never do the same workout twice—for physical exercise and spiritual encouragement.
Abby Allen
“I started at SDG in the fall of 2023. Each morning, Abby’s workouts challenge me to be better than I was the day before. She is encouraging and motivates you physically, mentally, and spiritually. I’m thankful to have SDG and Abby in my community, where I can be myself, grow as a person, and also encourage others along the way.”
Laura Powell
“I first came to SDG because I needed some push beyond my solo garage workouts. And I certainly get that! But I’ve stayed consistent because of the community SDG has built. The people make it! The endorphins don’t hurt either. I’m stronger and have plenty of energy to keep up with my 3 boys, and I appreciate the emphasis on our whole selves, not just our bodies!”
Mary Beth Peach
“Joining has been a transformative experience for me. It’s the perfect combination of community and fitness, allowing me to get to know other amazing people in the neighborhood. Abby has a unique talent for pushing us hard in workouts, yet she always knows just how far to encourage us without going beyond our limits. She makes every session feel tailored to our individual needs with plenty of laughs and good music!”
Emily Ness
Hoover’s Annual Events
A Year of Health, Wellness, Connection + Community
Supports well-being through community connection.
Promotes physical activity.
Inspires healthy eating.
Promotes protection and physical safety.
Encourages time outdoors
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
Meet and connect with Hoover’s first responders during the National Night Out event held in March. Members of Hoover’s police and fire department gather outside the Riverchase Galleria to exhibit their first response vehicles and teams. Attendees can participate in child fingerprinting services, giveaways, a car show and inflatables for the kids.
CELEBRATE HOOVER DAY
Enjoy springtime fresh air at Hoover’s annual city-wide festival. Held in April at Veterans Park, the event includes live music and entertainment, a car show, an exhibitor pavilion of local businesses, carnival rides, kids’ games and activities, face painting, police and fire department displays, on-site document destruction, complimentary ice cream and a slice of a 10-foot-wide apple pie. Parking is available at Spain Park High School with complimentary shuttles to the park.
National Night Out
Photo by Lance Shores
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY
Safely remove hazardous products from your home, including household chemicals, pesticides, paints, batteries, automobile fluids, electronics, medications, guns and ammunition. Hosted by the Public Works Department, this event is typically held around Earth Day and allows residents to dispose of items that cannot be handled by regular garbage pickup.
DERBY AND DINING
Give curious minds a healthy foundation with Hoover City Schools Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser. Held each April, this casual event features live music, live and silent auctions, and a catered dinner. Funds raised help support nearly 14,000 students in enhanced academies throughout all 17 schools. This includes college and career readiness, teacher grants, professional development, STEM and SeedLAB.
THE BOIL
Soak up the sun while raising funds for pediatric cancer patients and their families through The Boil, an annual event hosted by the Hope for Autumn Foundation. Held each April in Ross Bridge, participants enjoy all-you-can-eat fresh-boiled crawfish, hamburgers, hotdogs, inflatables, balloon animals and live music, including a kids’ dance party.
Celebrate Hoover Day
Photo by Lance Shores
FARMERS’ MARKETS
Every summer, Hoover is home to many local farmers’ markets. Brock’s Gap Brewery, Lee Branch and Ross Bridge are three of the larger, more well-known markets. Each week from May to August, new vendors offer fresh, farm-grown fruit and vegetables, local honey, handmade jewelry, art, toys and home-baked goods.
MAYOR’S PRAYER BREAKFAST
Nourish your soul and your body during a morning of prayer and discussion of the state of the city at the annual prayer breakfast hosted by the Hoover Beautification Board. The breakfast is typically held on the first Tuesday in May.
SOUTHEAST CONFERENCE AND BASEBALL TOURNAMENT
Get inspired by top collegiate athletes at the SEC tournament, which has been hosted in Hoover for more than 20 years and draws crowds of more than 120,000 to the Hoover Met. During the tournament, teams from the SEC compete for the championship title during the week prior to Memorial Day.
REGIONS TRADITION
Enjoy a stress-free, relaxing day on the greens. This annual Champions Tour event is held at Greystone Golf & Country Club each May. Watch some of the greats of professional golf compete, as well as the popular celebrity Pro-Am that preceded the tournament.
Southeast Conference and Baseball Tournament
Photo by Lance Shores
HOOVER RESTAURANT WEEK
Find a new favorite healthy meal during this week-long event held in partnership with the Hoover Restaurant Alliance. Held each July, Hoover Restaurant Week features many participating restaurants offering food and drink specials, as well as various chef and bartender challenges throughout the month.
REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY AND STAIR CLIMB
Encourage healthy ways to honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and pay tribute to the courage of first responders. Held in the Rivercahse Galleria Food Court and adjoining Galleria Towers, the ceremony kicks off a stair climb equivalent to the World Trade Center’s 110 stories. Proceeds from the climb benefit the Hoover Public Safety Charity Foundation.
BLUFF PARK ART SHOW
Consider this an informal lesson in art as therapy. Each October, artists from around the country gather in Bluff Park to showcase their talents and compete for awards and cash prizes. Held on the first Saturday in October, the art show features more than 150 artists. Attendees can browse and shop from a wide variety of exhibitors. The proceeds from the judged competition benefit the Bluff Park Art Association.
MOSS ROCK FESTIVAL
Experience the healing power of spending time outdoors. This eco-creative festival, held at the Hoover Met in November, features vendors, artists, and exhibits inspired by nature, sustainability, and smart design. The Moss Rock Festival also includes live music, tastings, markets, a beer garden and hiking opportunities.
Regions Tradition
Photo by Lance Shores
VETERANS WEEK CELEBRATION
Create meaningful connections with local men and women who have served our country. Each November, Hoover hosts a week of flagpole ceremonies, library events and more to pay tribute to veterans and educate the community about their service. Select Hoover-based nonprofits will also host charitable efforts to raise funds to support veterans’ needs.
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Connect with friends and family at the City’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, which promises “snow,” no matter the weather. Held in late November or early December, the event is centered around City Hall’s 40-foot Christmas tree and features performances from local students, pictures with Santa, a snow machine and hot chocolate.
HO HO HOOVER
Care for those in need at this “holiday extravaganza with heart.” Ho Ho Hoover benefits Hoover Helps, a local nonprofit that works to identify and meet the basic needs of local children, specifically food insecurity. The event is held each December at the Hoover Randall Home & Gardens and has two parts: a VIP reception for adults and an open house for families and participants of all ages.
MENORAH LIGHTING
Foster relationships through shared traditions. In partnership with Chabad of Alabama, the Hoover Public Library hosts a menorah lighting to celebrate Hannukah. The event also features music, a dreidel mascot, arts, crafts and games for children, as well as doughnuts, latkes and chocolate gelt.
Visit www.hooveralabama.gov and click the events calendar for the most up-to-date information.
Menorah Lighting
Photo by Lance Shores
Help Your House, Help Your Health
For Lee Ramey, Mold & Mildew Solutions is more than a business—it’s a tribute to his mother, Janis.
Janis experienced chronic lung issues, which impacted her quality of life and contributed to a shortened life span. When Lee later discovered the house she lived in added to the issue, he wanted to learn everything he could about building sciences and making homes and living spaces safer and healthier.
SERVICES OFFERED:
We take great pride in ensuring the air your family breathes is as safe as possible. Mold & Mildew Solutions is honored to provide the following science-backed services to help you protect those you love most:
• Indoor Air Quality Testing for radon, mold, mildew, micro-toxins, allergens and more.
• Mold and Moisture Inspections to find out if you have a mold problem or a water problem, and determine viable, long-term solutions
• Interior mold removal, plus options for successful treatment and prevention.
• Crawl space encapsulation, as well as waterproofing and water management systems in basements.
“We pride ourselves on continuing education and our certifications. We are trained and certified in many aspects of cleaning and have many Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certifications.”
Lee jumped right in, personally building his own family’s home from the ground up just to learn how houses are built, when and where problems can happen along the way, and what to do to fix them, said his daughter, Candace.
Candace grew up in the family business and has done every job, from the front desk and accounting to marketing and field work. She added that Lee’s handson experience “laid the foundation of education that has gotten us into the field we are in now.”
Lee’s original business concept began more than 40 years ago with window cleaning and floor, carpet, rug, upholstery and water restoration, which led to cleaning for health.
With a focus on learning new solutions to best serve their customers, mold remediation was a natural expansion from water restoration projects. And Lee, who studied the new science-backed methods of mold removal, officially founded Mold & Mildew Solutions’ new industry as a division of his existing company in 2000.
Affectionately known as the “Mil-Dude,” a fun play off “mildew,” Lee carries his personal values— such as trust and helping others—into the family business, passing them on to his employees. “We enjoy helping people,” said Candace. “We deal with a lot of people who are sick and have illnesses, and many don’t know why. We are helping their house, but ultimately their family’s health.”
Today, Mold & Mildew Solutions serves customers throughout the Central Alabama area with indoor air quality testing and mold and moisture inspections; both are critical because mold spores are nearly invisible when they start and difficult for the naked eye to detect.
Solutions offered for interior mold removal include methods to keep mold issues from coming back, waterproofing and water management systems for basements, and crawl space encapsulation.
Candace added, “We enjoy knowing we’ve helped multitudes of people with their indoor air quality and moisture problems. We take a lot of pride in it.”
