Mom in the City

Since May is "National Physical Fitness and Sports Month", I thought that NYC locals might be interested in the following free (or low cost) programs offered by the Parks Department:

-Step Out New York City: This is a free walking program for all ages which is held at many locations throughout the city. During the spring, walks take place on Saturday mornings. During the summer, walks take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings as well as Saturday mornings. Visit here for 2008 updates.

-Shape Up New York: This is a free nutrition and fitness program for the entire family. Held throughout the year, these one hour classes and activities encourage the development of healthy lifestyles by showing participants easy and fun ways to exercise and eat well. The professionally led classes include cycling, walking and stretching along with direction on preparing healthy snacks and meals. Visit here for locations and schedules.

-Recreation Centers: I’ve mentioned these gems before.  They offer a variety of services to facilitate healthy living including indoor pools, weight rooms, basketball courts, dance studios, boxing rings and a variety of classes including aerobics and dancing.  Membership for young people (under 18) is free. Two centers with good reputations are Sunset Park (7th Avenue at 43rd Street in Brooklyn) and Tony Dapolito (3 Clarkson Street in Manhattan). You can find a comprehensive list of facilities here. 

-Swim Programs: There are a variety of free aquatic programs for all ages and levels offered by the Parks Department. After school swimming lessons are offered for children ages 6-14 at several pools. Children are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Free Saturday swim classes are also offered to ages three to adults of all ages. Once again, participants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.  Lastly, the Parks also has a swim-team training program for young people (6 to 18 years old) who can swim 25+ yards. For more information about Parks' swim programs, call Parks Citywide Aquatics at (718) 760-6969.