Police officer and teacher discover perfect workouts for their busy schedules through their longstanding GreatLIFE membership

Officer Matt Vander Velde, a school resource officer at Axtell Park, is set to transition to an overnight shift patrolling Sioux Falls neighborhoods in the coming weeks. However, his day doesn’t end there. Vander Velde, a dedicated member of GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness for over a decade, heads straight to the golf course after work.

“I usually go straight to the golf course when I’m done,” Vander Velde shared. He typically arrives at Willow Run Golf Course before 7 a.m. and is surprised by the number of people who join him for an early morning round of golf. Some even manage to squeeze in nine holes before heading to work.

Thanks to GreatLIFE’s unlimited model, Vander Velde can play as many rounds as he wants, and he takes full advantage of it. “It’s been overwhelmingly positive,” he said. “I’m out there probably seven days a week. I will go to Bakker Crossing once in a while, Hartford once in a while. We’ve been to Worthington and Vermillion, but predominantly I’ll do Willow Run.”

In addition to golf, Vander Velde occasionally includes a workout at Willow Run’s fitness center. His wife, Theresa, a special education teacher at Anne Sullivan Elementary, also enjoys staying active at the 26th Street GreatLIFE gym near their home on the east side of Sioux Falls.

“We like our gym because it’s close to our house,” Theresa said. “When it’s nice, I walk there and do my lifting and continue and walk further or walk home. And we love the people who work there. They’re just friendly, and they have been for years.”

The Vander Veldes prioritize their health and well-being by working out almost daily, incorporating a mix of cardio and strength training. “It’s just been really good for us,” Theresa shared. “We both feel healthier, and it’s a good way to relieve stress. When I don’t work out for a couple of days, I know I need to get there because you can tell your stress level is needing it. And the people make all the difference. It’s like a little community of people you can talk to or ask questions.”

Randall Hill, vice president of fitness at GreatLIFE, commended the Vander Veldes for their dedication to staying active and healthy. “When you’re working in a role like a police officer or teacher, staying active has so many benefits,” Hill said. “These are physically and emotionally demanding jobs, and being able to get in a workout or round of golf whenever it works for you is key. We’re thankful for how the Vander Veldes have served our community and been a part of our GreatLIFE community for years.”

GreatLIFE offers a variety of fitness and recreational opportunities for its members, allowing them to lead active and healthy lifestyles. Whether it’s hitting the golf course or the gym, GreatLIFE provides the resources and support for individuals like the Vander Veldes to prioritize their well-being.

If you’re ready to start living your GreatLIFE this spring and beyond, visit any GreatLIFE location to learn more about the membership options and benefits available. Join the community of active individuals who are committed to staying healthy and fit while enjoying the activities they love.