[CHARLESTON, SC] – There’s something for everyone in the latest lineup of outdoor spring programs offered to the public by the Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission (CCPRC). The programs are designed to encourage participants to get in touch with nature while embarking on their fitness goals. CCPRC encourages residents to sign up for one or more of the following classes this spring and summer: Yogathon, Walk and Restore, Short Circuit, and SUP Fitness (stand-up paddleboard).
The Yogathon classes begin April 17 at Folly Beach County Park. The first program will be in celebration of the moon, and yoga moves will include moon salutations. From there, the class will rotate into other parks including Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park, North Charleston Wannamaker County Park, James Island County Park and Isle of Palms County Park. The class is open to anyone ages 16 and up and of all fitness levels. Prices vary, but Charleston county residents can sign up for $5 per class when registering for 3 or more sessions.
“We want to encourage people to embrace the outdoors with their workouts,” CCPRC’s Fitness and Wellness Program Manager Allison Foster said. “Take advantage of the weather we have here and branch out.”
Those looking to get back into working out or starting for the first time are encouraged to try the Walk and Restore program, which is a 55-minute class focused on restoring the body and mind while walking along trails in James Island County Park. Restorative yoga professionals will lead participants along short walking loops while stopping intermittently to stretch and relax. The class will end in the park’s Conference Center, where participants will focus on strength, flexibility, balance, and breathing by learning restorative yoga techniques.
“We’re encouraging people to connect with nature and recharge their energy,” Foster said. “These programs help people to break out of ruts and try something new.”
Short Circuit is another program designed to maximize workouts and get participants a full-body, calorie-burning workout completed during their lunch break. Foster said the Short Circuit program provides a great way to “get in and get out” quickly, while benefitting from a complete workout.
Anyone interested in a more unique way to get fit can take advantage of CCPRC’s SUP Fitness classes, which were introduced to the public in 2013. These classes use intervals of Barre, Pilates, and yoga to build core stability, develop upper body strength, and lift and tone the lower body. Exercises are performed on the SUP. Participants of all fitness levels are welcome to take part. Board, paddles, and personal flotation devices are provided.
More fitness classes will be available as the summer progresses and they’re designed to get people into the water and working out. H20 Moves is a class that will give participants a full-body workout while emphasizing proper form and stretching. It is ideal for anyone managing pain or weight-related conditions. HIIT The Water is a high-intensity interval training course that takes place in the water. It offers cross-training options for intermediate to advanced athletes.
Be Fit Charleston, on June 7 at Old Towne Creek County Park, will offer circuit training and yoga classes for adults, recycle relays and interpretive walks for children, and biking/walking options for exploring the park.
“We are encouraging people to look to the parks as a resource for fitness and to embrace the outdoors in their workouts,” Foster said.
To sign up for any classes or for further details, visit the link below.
