As most members of the business community can attest to, there’s often not enough hours in the day for work, let alone a fitness routine. Add a family to the mix and the window for a workout can get even smaller.
That’s why the West Shore Parks and Recreation Society is working hard to give residents more options and flexibility when creating a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
“We have plenty of that,” said fitness programmer Kristy Webster. “That’s the wonderful thing about community recreation, it’s all ages and all levels. It’s for everyone.”
Ladies-only golf lessons, weightless boot camp, boxing for fitness and various classes that utilize the new Queenax fitness equipment have proven to be popular choices among women.
A number of classes are also geared towards expecting or new moms. Expecting 2BFit, is a prenatal fitness class. “It focuses on the muscles needed for a healthy childbirth,” Webster explained, adding the emphasis is on healthy activity during pregnancies.
There are also stroller boot camp, tri-cycle, spin and fit classes where baby can come with you, Webster noted, adding, “the main demographic is women but they’re not just for women.”
Some of these programs require pre-registration but many are open to drop-in participants, adding another level of flexibility. “All of these (also) take place while we have child minding available,” Webster noted. “With the cost of living so crazy, we have to do what we can to make being active accessible.” To help with some of the financial and other scheduling challenges, child minding is available for 75 minutes at a cost of $3.50 or $30 for a 10-visit punch card.
While also not exclusively for women, spin classes are always a popular choice, Webster added. “Of course we (also) have our more dance styled programs.” These include options such as Zumba, Jazzercise and bellyfit.
“For anyone not looking for the group atmosphere … we do have personal training,” Webster said, which also includes rehabilitation options.
There are also programs that offer smaller group dynamics for those looking for a more intimate experience. The biggest loser winner program is an example of that, with a maximum group size of five participants. The 10-week program aims “to get you on the road to weight loss,” Webster said. Last spring’s winner lost more than 26 pounds.
The society’s sizable trail network around the Juan de Fuca Recreation site is also a great option that allows residents to spend more time outdoors while getting a little exercise. The West Shore Walkway trail network features a 2.8 kilometre loop and two other smaller routes. All of which have recently been updated with new signage.
“It’s definitely a big improvement,” Webster noted, adding a number of different walking groups utilize the trail.
For those that are just looking for a nice place for a stroll with a friend these trails are a good place to start. New makers will also tell you exactly how far you have to go.
All of those options combined with a number of yoga classes that range from gentle therapeutic, to Hatha flow to 55-plus, there’s something for every woman.
For more information on these programs and more, go to westshorerecreation.ca.
