More people engaged with healthy activities in their communities – that’s SPR’s mission! We aim to make recreation and fun accessible to all, with programs that meet the needs of our diverse population. One such program is Lifelong Recreation, designed for folks over 50 who may be physically active, just becoming active, or who may have age-related limitations (including dementia-friendly activities). The program is jam-packed each quarter with classes, field trips, volunteer opportunities, and social outings. Many participants boast about completing half marathons, making meaningful social connections, losing weight, increasing flexibility and balance, and traveling to regional destinations. (And they have a lively Facebook page to boot!)
Wellness Activities
Two popular Lifelong Recreation classes that benefit body and mind – extremely important as we age – are Gentle Yoga and Tai Chi. These classes are easy to follow and instructors can help participants adapt to the positions. Gentle Yoga and Tai Chi are offered across Seattle at various community centers and times throughout the day: see page 6 in the current catalog for a quick view of classes and locations.
Read the Seattle Times article on Gentle Yoga at Montlake Community Center
For those who want to learn from scratch (or revisit) the fundamentals, Fitness Room Foundation gives participants the knowledge and confidence to tackle strength training, cardiovascular fitness, balance, and flexibility. This class meets Tuesdays from 11:30 to 12:30 on 8/29, 9/5, 9/12 at Northgate Community Center. For more information contact Robin Brannman 206.386.9106
A proud partner with Shape Up King County, Lifelong Recreation offers new participants $10 off on any fitness class at the Bitter Lake and Loyal Heights community centers. Lifelong Recreation is also working in partnership with Generations with Pride, an non-profit providing services for older LGBTQ adults and their families. (Classes are noted in the catalog by rainbow colors.)
Adventures & Outings
Field trips are in demand as well; coming up is an excursion to the Western Heritage Center for great interactive exhibits about mining, logging, agriculture, and wildlife in NW Washington. The trip includes a visit to the Equestrian Center at Evergreen State Fairgrounds to view horses preparing for the Extreme Mustang Makeover competition. (Thursday 8/17 9am-2:30; contact Robin Brannman at 206.386.9106 for information.)
More August field trips – from blueberry picking and hiking to sailing and visiting NW Trek- can be found in the summer catalog. Fall is on its way, so make the best of summer while you still can with Lifelong Recreation!