Michael Resnik, a long-time resident of Plainview, is president of Impact Health & Fitness. Resnik has been a Type 1 Diabetic since childhood and through his passion, concern and 40 years of personal experience with diabetes, Impact developed from a dream into a reality.

Impact Health & Fitness, located at 101 Sunnyside Boulevard (at the corner of Terminal Drive) in Plainview, is one of the first fitness facilities in the United States to serve ages 8 to 12, as well as teens and adults, including seniors. The programs are specifically designed to promote balance, strength and health and are tailored to each individual's needs, based on age and body composition, as well as the results of fitness and nutrition evaluations. According to Resnik, Impact strives to combat obesity for children and adults in the community as well as offering a family fitness facility for those who want to add to their current regimen.

Impact's mission to educate the public on the benefits of daily exercise and proper nutrition is being recognized by local organizations such as the American Heart Association, the Ronald McDonald House of Long Island, Island Harvest, the Long Island Children's Museum, the New York Dragons and the New York Islanders who have all partnered with the facility.

Impact officially opened in October 2005 and currently has approximately 145 members, but financial restraints might force Impact to close as early as this weekend.

More members, or financial backing from an interested party and/or company, would allow Impact to remain open and continue to help their current and future clients. Many of the current members have expressed their extreme disappointment if Impact were to close, as they have greatly benefited from going to the fitness center. The unique atmosphere and warm environment caters to those individuals who need a place to feel comfortable, welcome and not be intimidated to work toward a healthier lifestyle.

Randy Brachman, a 15-year-old from Plainview, has lost 15 pounds in three months with the help of the staff at Impact. "I enjoy going to the gym because everyone is friendly and helpful. Since I lost 15 pounds, I feel better about myself and I am working to maintain my current weight," said Randy. "I do not know what I will do if Impact closes because I finally found a place that I am comfortable with."

Randy's mom agrees. "Impact is the best thing that happened to my son. He goes there willingly and with a new-found positive attitude," said mom Ruth Brachman. "I am very pleased with his progress and hope that more people will see what can be done for their families as well."

Impact helps members change their overall image by working with their body, mind and soul. According to Resnik, they make members feel good about themselves and their bodies by encouraging them to achieve their goal, one step at a time. They create an individual routine specific to the member's needs.

"We know more about our member's daily routines, medical issues, and lifestyles because we care. That's what makes our facility different from any other," said Resnik. "You have to see it to believe it. As a family, corporation or as an individual you too can experience the difference by taking the first step toward your new lifestyle."

Impact is recognized by many as a unique facility, for their services as well as the décor. The vibrant colors and theme make patrons feel warm and comfortable at the facility.

Ellen McDonald and Susan Ahearn are two of many Davis Vision employees who work out at Impact. McDonald raved about the "friendly environment, the cleanliness and state-of-the-art equipment" at Impact.

Ahearn, McDonalds co-worker, said that the location is convenient enabling her to work out during her lunch hour. "I love being able to break-up my workday by working out during my lunch hour," said Ahearn. "Ellen and I motivate each other to go to the gym each day, and we have fun because it's not intimidating to be there."

Impact services everyone 8 years old and over. Prices vary for those between 8 and 12, depending on the number of visits and for people 13 and over, fees are $40 a month after the initiation fee.

If Impact remains open they have a Jump Rope for Heart event, planned in partnership with the American Heart Association on May 6 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The event is designed to help increase awareness of heart disease and stroke. Lucie B, a medical doctor turned fitness trainer will join Impact in making the day fun while raising money for the American Heart Association.

Visit www.impactfitnessclub.com for more information or call 349-6050 to find out more about sponsorship opportunities and memberships.