Willoughby Public Library did its part to start patrons off on the right path in 2020.

The library hosted its first New Year, New You Health and Wellness Fair Jan. 18.

Presenting high-quality, relevant and free programming to the public is a high priority for the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library system, said Assistant Library Manager Travis Fortney. And to that end, each of our four locations have chosen topics that we believe will be of sufficient interest to devote an entire day of programming for our signature programs.

These programs started in December with Eastlake Library's Holiday DIY Day and will continue this year with a Fantasy, Folkore and Fiction Festival at Willowick Library on May 16 and All About Herbs day at the Willoughby Hills branch in the fall.

With the new year, so many of us seek to start or restart better habits for our physical or emotional selves, Fortney said. Our full day of programming includes topics such as goal-setting, decluttering, healthy eating and fitness.

There was a waiting list for an opportunity to hear Dr. Oz show contributor and four-time New York Times bestselling author Dr. Michael Roizen, an internist at Cleveland Clinic, where he is chief wellness officer.

Another popular session was a hands-on class on cardio drumming. It involves a bucket, an exercise ball, drumsticks, lots of movement and, of course, music with a good beat.

A cardio-drumming class was held at Willoughby Library during a health and wellness fair Jan. 18.

It's a very fun, colorful activity that is fast-paced and varied, but accessible to all fitness levels, Fortney said. He noted that the class, presented by Willowick-based Will-Power Nutrition, will return to the library Jan. 21, Feb. 18 and April 21.

The business offers Herbalife Nutrition, fitness classes and a fit camp on Monday nights.

One of the owners, Melissa Dawson, got hooked on cardio drumming after taking part in a class offered by Empower Nutrition of Mentor.

Melissa Dawson leads a cardio-drumming workout at WIlloughby Library.

Dawson said it combines her love of music and movement.

Weve created routines; we only do about four or five moves per song, so its easier to catch onto, she said. Once youve learned it, you push yourself to do exaggerated moves. There are modifications for every level.

I dont like the gym, added fellow class leader Melissa Davidson. So going into a club setting where you can be positive and work out, and not feel self-conscious is a good feeling. Its a good feeling to be around like-minded people.

They insist no drumming background or even rhythm is required to take part.

Helen Drake of Willoughby has some experience playing a hand drum, but shed never heard of cardio drumming before.

Helen Drake enjoys a cardio-drumming workout at Willoughby Library.

This really got my attention because I like drumming and its an interesting way to do cardio, she said.

Dawson said the classes are growing and they are looking for new spaces to hold them.

They have held workouts for various groups in the community, including staff at Wickliffe Schools and football players at North High School.

Were willing to come to you if you want to try it out, she said.

Willoughby Library offered a health and wellness event Jan. 18.

The first class is free, then $5 per person or four classes for $15.

For more information about cardio drumming, visit Will-Power Nutritions Facebook page. For more on Willoughby-Eastlake libraries programming, visit WE247.org or call 440-942-3200.

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Health, wellness tips, fitness classes offered at Willoughby Library's first 'New Year, New You' event - News-Herald.com