Physical activity programs are grant-funded through the Connecticut Department of public health. The physical activity programs share the year 2010 objective of increasing the proportion of adults who engage regularly, preferably daily, in moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes per day. The physical activity programs include several "A.C.T.I.V.E." Programs (Activity Class to Improve Vitality In Everyone). These programs include: A.C.T.I.V.E. Classes, Yoga Pilates, "Splashin’ Action" (a water fitness program), Strength and Stretch, and Intermediate Tai Chi.

The "A.C.T.I.V.E." Classes include low-impact exercises that are designed for those that have or have not been exercising on a regular basis. They also include stretching and some amount of weight training.

Yoga Pilates is beneficial physically, emotionally and spiritually. It develops muscle tone, stretching and limbering, and strength throughout movement. The combination of all is the basis in exercise for improving muscular strength and endurance, balancing, muscle strength with flexibility and achieving muscular balance. All of this while paying attention to conscious breathing and mindfulness of movement. Each movement is taken to full extension involving every nerve and muscle.

"Splashin’ Action" is an invigorating Aquatic Fitness Class. Classes are designed to promote aerobic fitness and joint protection through low impact exercises in a natural environment. Water provides gentle resistance to build muscle strength and increase range of motion.

Strength & Stretch class is designed to stretch muscles and strengthen bones. The class will start with standing warm-ups and continue with hand weights, stretch bands, and tubing while sitting in a chair.

Tai Chi is a physical exercise that focuses the mind, while conditioning the body. Practicing Tai Chi 20 minutes a day dissipates stress and reduces stress-related problems, increases stamina and strengthens the body. The intermediate Tai Chi Class is a fitness, strength and balance improvement program for those that have already attended a Tai Chi Class. The program will continue to teach the Yang Style Tai Chi Form 24 as started in Introductory Tai Chi Class. This class will focus more on correct body postures, form movements, and transition of forms. The correct practice of Tai Chi will rejuvenate internal energy and mind concentration for long time health benefits.

Currently these exercise programs are offered in Enfield, East Windsor and Suffield and Windsor Locks.

For more information contact the health educator at (860) 745-0383

Click here for the latest schedule and for program applications.

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Childhood Nutrition Program

The Childhood Nutrition Program program consists of four multi-session nutrition classes in which parents are invited to come and learn about childhood nutrition. On the last night of the program, the entire family is invited to come out and participate in a physical activity demonstration as well as a taste test of some of the healthy food talked about during the program.