Throughout my schooling, I always had an affinity for experimentation and numbers, which I suppose is the reason I ended up focusing on the science and math fields in college. I enjoyed the subjects and I was good at them (Can you say “analytical?”). So when I finished reading the Competitor magazine articles from a couple of months ago and was quickly scanning the numerous small advertisements that fill up the back pages, it did not surprise me that my eyes fixed upon one in particular.
The ad was about 5 x 8 inches, bigger than the others on the page, and the headline read “Train Smarter Not Harder”. That got my attention, but the tag underneath it (in smaller letters) which proclaimed “Get the Winning Edge – Train Scientifically”, well, that sealed the deal. I had to find out more, so I continued to read. The rest of the ad explained about a comprehensive test that includes a 12 lead ECG (stress test), VO2 max, anaerobic threshold, body composition, lung functions and complete blood work. Results would include an individualized training program, heart rate monitor program and a nutritional prescription. I could be a human guinea pig… sweet! By this time I had goosebumps and searched for the phone number. I figured this had to be very expensive, but it’s at least worth a phone call.
I called Health Corp., based in Irvine, to get the details. Dr. Herman Falsetti, M.D., a Cardiologist and sports medicine legend, would administer the tests. I was informed that Dr. Falsetti pioneered heart rate training zones and periodization training, and has a client list including Olympians, former Boston Marathon winner Alberto Salazar, two-time Hawaii Ironman champion Scott Tinley and some guy by the name of Lance Armstrong. He has also authored over 200 scientific articles and 8 books. Okay, so this is no yahoo… he knows what he is talking about. But what about the price? The receptionist quoted me $750 without insurance, and then asked for my health insurance information. She called me back the next day to say it would only cost me $100 out-of-pocket, and the tests would be billed as an “executive physical.” Now we were talking!
Soon after I arrived to my scheduled appointment, Dr. Falsetti asked me what my goals/intentions were for having these tests done, then proceeded to measure my height, weight, blood pressure and body fat with calipers. After a vial of blood was drawn, we headed to the treadmill. I first relaxed on an exam room “bed” while resting heart rate was established, and the ECG leads were then attached all over my chest and torso. I was given a mouthpiece connected to tubing with stabilizers that attached to my head and was asked to step on the treadmill. The test was about 12-13 minutes long, starting at a walk and incrementally increasing in speed to roughly my 10K race pace. The headgear was a bit awkward but everything went smoothly. My recovery heart rate was measured at 1 and 2 minute time points before I was told to have a Balance Bar and water while I waited a few minutes for results.
The comprehensive tests are designed to show you where you are at and point you in the right direction to where you want to be, but it is ultimately up to you to take it from there, and for the money I paid, it was more than worth it. I have included the contact info for Health Corp, but I have some business cards and flyers as well if you are interested. Also mention my name and the club because they talked about a discount for club members. What are you waiting for? Health Corp 4 Jenner, Suite 110 Irvine, CA 92618 Office: (949) 727-1900