Kettering adds outdoor fitness activities including, Zumba, Pilates and yoga.
“I love being outdoors. I’ll take outdoor exercise over indoor exercise any day,” instructor J.J. Kunkle said. “Outdoor exercise has been my sanity through the pandemic and I love a chance to share my passion for the outdoors.”
Kunkle teaches the Pilates classes and is running the scavenger hunt.
“Pilates with a view of the pond is much better than Pilates with a view of the studio,” she said.
Instructor Sherri Raderstorf feels the same way about the Yoga in the Park classes.
“It is definitely a class that is appropriate for all levels and great for people who want to get back into an exercise program and want to feel particularly safe in an outdoor setting,” Raderstorf said. “It is a beautiful way to experience the peacefulness of yoga and the peacefulness of Mother Nature all in one.”
Curry has noticed more and more people slowly returning to group fitness classes, but having outdoor classes provides an additional safe option. Outdoor spaces allow for easy social distancing, not to mention a few other perks.
“We have tons of space to spread out when we’re outside,” Kunkle said. “Nature provides us with fresh air and natural fans as well as vitamin D.”
A little sunshine, paired with fun music and friends might be all the motivation that’s needed to add fitness to your routine.
“I don’t often do Zumba outdoors but, when I do I really enjoy it,” instructor Amy Robinson said. “Watching the joy on patrons’ faces as they dance their worries away is always great. Being outdoors allows people passing to watch and potentially join our energetic classes.”
Fresh Air and Fitness in Kettering
Participants should bring their own yoga mats, towels and water.
Pilates by the Pond
What: Pilates focuses on the core muscles, but participants will get a full-body, very low-impact workout. It is suitable for all fitness levels, keeping in mind that we will be on the ground the entire class.
When: June 12, 9-10 a.m.
Where: Indian Riffle Pond
Who: 13 and older
Cost: $3 residents, $5 non-residents
Yoga in the Park
What: Class designed for all levels and great for people who want to get back into an exercise program and feel safe in an outdoor setting.
When: Wednesday classes 9-10 a.m., three sessions available – June 9-30, July 7-28 and August 4-25
Where: Wenzler Park Pavilion
Who: 13 and older
Cost: $30 residents, $40 non-residents per four-week session
Zumba on the Island
What: Dance fitness program that incorporates Latin and world rhythms with movement, mixing low-intensity and high-intensity movements to create an interval style workout. All levels welcome.
When: May 29 and August 14, 9-10 a.m.
Where: Lincoln Park Commons
Who: 13 and older
Cost: $3 residents, $5 non-residents
Fitness Scavenger Hunt
What: Participants will solve clues that will take them all over the Kettering Recreation Complex and Indian Riffle Park. A fitness task will be assigned before participants can venture to their next destination.
When: June 28, 6-7 p.m. Where: Kettering Recreation Complex and Indian Riffle Park
Who: 8 and older
Cost: $3 residents, $5 non-residents
For more information or registration visit www.playkettering.org
Contact this contributing writer at [email protected].