Laughter filled Central Park Plaza as local children turned out for the first Fit Friday event of the summer. “Today is focused on youth,” stated Dan McGuire, Superintendent of Recreation for the Valparaiso Department of Parks and Recreation. This series of lunchtime events, sponsored by Porter Regional Hospital, will showcase various fitness activities throughout the summer, in an effort to encourage healthy habits for community members. “We want to get people outside and active, whether through creative games for kids or exercise options, like Zumba,” McGuire went on to say.
The June 7th event was centered around “Youth Fit,” with help from Andrew Wallen of Integrated Movement. “The whole goal today is to have fun and move,” he shared with the group, kicking off the hour with basic agility training for the kids. “We want to get the kids moving, get them active,” McGuire went on to say.
“We want to encourage physical fitness at a young age,” shared Bonny Hildebrand, Healthy Woman and Senior Circle Coordinator for Porter Health System. “Porter is partnering with the Parks Department to spread good health and share with the community that physical fitness is fun.”
Saylor Elementary social worker and local mom Karen Kinsey brought her daughters Jayna and Madeleine to celebrate the first day of summer vacation. “We’re down here all the time,” she said. “Central Park has improved the city’s quality of life. People are taking the time to relax and enjoy life!”
The remaining Fit Fridays will take place throughout the summer, during the noon to 1 pm hour. The schedule is as follows:
June 14: Zumba
June 21: Yoga
June 28: Zumba
July 12: Salsa/Swing Dancing
July 19: Yoga
August 2: Tai Chi
August 9: Kids Dance Party
August 16: Metabolic Boost