The Jewish Community Center has been slowly reinstating programs for members and non-members alike.

“There is nothing more important than maintaining your physical health and well-being during a pandemic, so we have been working around the clock to reopen our programs to the community at large,” said a representative of the JCC. “All of our programs have been revised to meet CDC and local health department guidelines, which includes limiting the number of people participating at one time as well as mandatory use of masks upon entering the facility.”

JCC members can sign up to use the pool by calling the JCC office between the hours of 9 am-5 pm, Monday through Friday. To make an appointment, people must call the day before they would like to swim. For Monday swim times, a person must call the previous Friday. Time slots are 45 minutes long. Before signing up, it’s necessary to read and agree to all of the COVID pool procedures that have been put in place. Children may come to swim with a parent or guardian by signing up for the shallow or deep end slots, or if they are signed up for a lesson. 

Since February 8, non-members are allowed to call the day of to book a spot to swim for a fee if there are any openings.

JCC members can also sign up to use the fitness center following the same guidelines mentioned above for swim registration; however, only one person may use the facility at a time. Two people may sign up together as long as they live in the same household. 

In addition, the JCC is offering various fitness classes. All of the “Pilates Apparatus” classes are full; however, there are openings in several other group classes. “Tai Chi for Energy” is offered Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:30-11:30 am for a fee of $50 for members and non-members. (People 80 and older can attend at no cost.) The class is taught by Peg Swarts, who is a certified instructor through Tai Chi for Health Institute. Tai Chi has been called “a good way to start your journey to better health. The gentle, graceful movements are a safe way to gain balance, strength and flexibility.” This session will include warm-up and cool down exercises, as well as qigong movements. It will include elements of Dr. Lam’s “Tai Chi for Energy” program, as well as movements from Tai Chi 24 Forms. No previous experience is necessary.

SilverSneakers® Classic is offered Thursdays from 10:45-11:30 am and is free to Silver Sneakers and JCC members, and $4 per class for non-members. “Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activities for daily living,” said a JCC representative. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a SilverSneakers ball are offered for resistance. A chair is available if needed for seated or standing support. 

Gentle Yoga began recently on Tuesdays from 10-11 am. There is a drop-in class fee of $8 for JCC members and $10 for non-members. The class is for all ages. The moves incorporate bending, stretching and balance. “Holding poses builds and strengthens muscle and stamina,” said a JCC representative. “The class aids in meditation and general well-being.”

“Everyone is welcome at the JCC,” the representative added. “Please call the main office at 724-2417 Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 am-5 pm for more information.”