Worcesterites still have plenty of opportunities to break a sweat outdoors this summer as the city’s annual Fitness in the Parks program continues offering free exercise classes at parks across the city
The program, presented by the Worcester Department of Health and Human Services in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, the YMCA of Central Massachusetts and YWCA Central Massachusetts, runs through Aug. 29 with classes scheduled six days a week at parks throughout Worcester
Designed to make fitness more accessible, the summer series offers everything from yoga and Pilates to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), dance fitness, basketball skills clinics, calisthenics and capoeira. Organizers say the classes are family friendly and intended to encourage residents of all ages to stay active while enjoying Worcester’s parks
According to the announcement, the program’s goal is to give residents a chance to engage in “healthy eating, active living and community building.”
Fitness in the Parks began in mid-June and continues through the remainder of the summer at seven city parks, including Elm Park, Crompton Park, Fuller Family Park, Cristoforo Colombo (East) Park, Institute Park, University (Crystal) Park and Winslow & Pleasant (Peace) Park
Morning, evening and weekend sessions are offered throughout the week, giving participants multiple opportunities to fit exercise into their schedules. Classes include recurring HIIT workouts, yoga, Zumba, basketball skills and drills, Faith Fit Dance Cardio, calisthenics, Pilates and Dance Fit4U
The city says the free program is intended to make healthy lifestyles more accessible while encouraging residents to take advantage of Worcester’s extensive park system during the summer months. Fitness in the Parks features 13 classes each week at locations across the city. Participants are encouraged to register online, although the classes are offered free of charge
Additional information, including the complete schedule and registration details, is available on the city’s website
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