Club members at the Agua Caliente Aquatic Center can enjoy water aerobics and special arthritis water classes. Photo by Ryan Lely.
From gyms to pools to parks, several locations around the Valley offer exercise classes designed to accommodate aging bodies. The following is a list of popular options with a basic description of each activity.
What is Qigong?
Qigong is a powerful system of healing and energy medicine from China. It incorporates the use of breathing techniques, gentle movement, and meditation to cleanse, strengthen, and circulate the life energy (qi). Qigong practice encourages better health, vitality and a tranquil state of mind.
Where it’s offered in Sonoma:
The Vintage House, Fridays, 9 a.m., $5. 264 First St. E.
Nathanson Creek Park, Mondays, 7 p.m., $5. At Fine Ave. and Dewell Dr.
Call 707.996.7880 to find out more about either class.
What is Yoga?
Yoga is a scientific system of physical and mental practices that originated in India more than three thousand years ago. Yoga stretches, strengthens, and revitalizes the body and mind, while still managing to be gentle with breathing and stretching exercises.
Where it’s offered in Sonoma:
The Vintage House, Mondays at 9:30 a.m., Thursdays at 5 p.m., Fridays at 10:30 a.m. $5. 264 First St. E. Call 707.996.0311 for more information.
Yoga Community Studio, daily, times vary based on skill and comfort level. Drop-in rate: $16. 577 Fifth St. W. Visit yogacommunity.net or call 707.935.8600 for class schedules and information.
Parkpoint Health Club, Sunday-Friday, times vary based on skill and comfort level. Drop-in rate: $10. 19111 Hwy. 12. Visit parkpointhealthclub.com or call 707.996.3111 for class schedules and information.
Avalon at Sonoma, Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. 91 Napa Road. To find out more call 707.939.1500.
What is Water Aerobics?
Water aerobics is the performance of aerobic exercise in shallow water such as a swimming pool. In some areas it is known as AquaFit or “aqua aerobics”, and is a type of resistance training. Water aerobics is great for people with arthritis, joint pain, or who just feel as though they could benefit from the support of water in their exercise routine.
Where it’s offered in Sonoma:
Agua Caliente Aquatic Center, aerobics are Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m., special arthritis water class Mondays and Wednesdays from 2-3 p.m. One-month trial memberships available. 17350 Vailetti Dr. Call 707.939.8833 for more details.
Parkpoint Health Club, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 9:30 a.m., Mondays and Wednesdays also at 6 p.m. Drop-in rate: $10. 19111 Hwy. 12. Visit parkpointhealthclub.com or call 707.996.3111 for more details.
What is Tai Chi?
Tai chi chuan is classified as internal Chinese martial art. Tai chi is typically practiced for a variety of reasons, including its soft martial arts techniques and health and longevity. Tai chi is a peaceful and invigorating experience.
Where it’s offered in Sonoma:
The Vintage House, Tuesdays, 10:45 a.m., $5. 264 First St. E. Call 707.996.0311 to find out more.
