September brings a new Spinning® program, Power Yoga, and Tai Chi in the water class, among other new additions, to the Simon Family JCC Fitness Center.
On Sept. 22, JCC cycle instructors will participate in a day-long Spinning® certification to become Spinning® certified. Holly Gebel, master instructor for the spinning program, is also a certified personal trainer, a group exercise instructor, and a JCC member.
Having Spinning® at the JCC means members can “expect a better ride than a regular cycling class,” says Gebel. Spinning® was the first indoor cycling program created in the ’90s by a cyclist, so the techniques mimic outdoor cycling.
“Spinning® is science-backed, not choreographed,” says Gebel. Participants are guided by heart rate and training zones during a typical one hour class, which can be for anyone looking for a non-competitive cardiovascular workout. Instructors are taught to accommodate all levels so that everyone will be challenged. “It allows for creativity in music choices and in the order and sequence of class. By having this common footing for all J instructors, we can ensure quality classes will be offered to members.” Spinning® at the JCC, officially launches on Oct. 1 with a master class, 5:30-7 pm complete with goody bags and refreshments.
Other new classes include Power Yoga, a 75-minute class Wednesdays at 5:30 pm. Sharon Giannelli, group fitness director, says members with yoga experience asked for a class that moved faster. Kay Lucas, a regular JCC teacher, will instruct this intermediate to advanced level class.
The warm water arthritis class recently participated in an Ai Chi demonstration in the warm water pool at the JCC. Ai Chi is a water movement and relaxation program created to help aquatic practitioners and clients enjoy the water in a flowing, yet powerful progression. According to Ai Chi founders, it is “an efficient exercise program that increases oxygen and caloric consumption simply with correct form and positioning in the water.” It is also ideal for creating improved range of motion, balance and mobility.
Ai Chi, created by combining Tai-Chi concepts with Shiatsu and other techniques, is performed standing in shoulder depth water using a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad movements of the arms, legs, and torso. A new class will start late fall at the JCC.
The BeWell personalized wellness program at the JCC recently began. This customized snapshot of daily wellness is based on each person’s input and is designed to track results. From stress management and wellness blogs to nutrition tips and workout plans, it is customized to an individual’s needs, with health assessments, meal and exercise planners, calorie counters, wellness workshops and more. It’s available online through the JCC website or at the fitness center.
The Simon Family JCC, now open 362 days a year, is open 8 am–6 pm Saturdays and Sunday. At the end of each month, members are encouraged to bring up to two guests for free (September dates are Sept. 26–29).
The JCC’s Open House and Fall Festival will take place Sunday, Oct. 20, 11 am to 3 pm. Enjoy a family day of fun and activities, including a petting zoo, hay rides, farmer’s market, inflatables, refreshments, and Virginia Opera’s family friendly performance of Jack and the Beanstalk.
For more information about any of these programs, call 321-2338 or visit simonfamilyj.org.
The Simon Family JCC is a constituent agency of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.
by Leslie Shroyer