The Atlantic Parks and Recreation Department and Nishna Valley YMCA in Atlantic, have teamed-up to offer free Outdoor Exercise programs at Sunnyside Park and the Schildberg Recreation Area. Ashton Koehlmoos, Fitness Director at the Nishna YMCA, told KJAN News the programs begin this coming Monday (May 22^nd).

She says there are three different weeks the exercise programs will be held outside, with the idea being to showcase the amazing parks we have here in Atlantic, and the classes available to you at the Y. Members and non-members of the Y are welcome to participate in the classes.

The first series of outdoor exercise classes run from Monday through Friday this coming week (May 22^nd-26^th). Some deal with cardiovascular fitness, others encompass the mind and body, such as Yoga and Pilates. They will be held on the west side of the Schildberg Park. Zumba, which is like an exercise party, will be held in the Camblin Shelter at Sunnyside Park, and Boot Camp for those who enjoy a high intensity workout and strength training, will be held at the west side of Schildberg Park.

Ashton says you don’t have to worry about a Drill Instructor barking at you through the Boot Camp, though. The instructors here are much more friendly, and accommodating. The next set of classes take place June 12^th through the 16^th, and include Zumba, Boot Camp, and “Balance and Flex together.” There’s also “Yogalates,” which…as you might guess…is a blend of Yoga and Pilates, which something new they’re trying this summer.

The third and final series of “Exercise in the Park” events takes place Sept. 11^th through the 15^th. Classes are available during the mid-morning and late evening hours, and are held on specific days. No pre-registration is necessary, and again there is no charge. If the weather is not cooperating, classes will be moved indoors and the YMCA.

For more information check out the Atlantic Parks and Rec Department website, on Facebook, or call Parks and Rec Director Seth Staashelm at 243-3542.