Fitness instructors are working with staff at the Bold Center in Lac La Biche County to continue their offerings of virtual workout classes and workshops to keep people moving as recreational facilities remain closed across the province due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Staci Lattimer, the manager of the Recreation Department for Lac La Biche County, says that working-out via the Zoom virtual platform, can help residents stick to a routine and encourage them to stay active while workout facilities aren’t an option.
“Offering classes virtually still provides a sense of belonging and motivation to show up to continue your fitness regime online, just as you would for in-person classes,” said Lattimer.
This is the second time that recreation facilities like the Bold Center have been closed during the year-long COVID-19 pandemic measures. Since last spring's closures that lasted for several weeks, recreation staff have learned a few things about online classes and offering a variety of programming to keep people coming back for more.
In this latest facility closure, residents again have a variety of classes to choose from and there is something for everyone. Bold Center staff are offering Zumba, strength training, cardio classes and they have just added pre- and post-natal fitness classes as well. Lattimer says that when fitness classes went online in the spring because of the first lockdown, people were looking forward to having an option that allowed them to keep up with their fitness routine.
“When classes were offered virtually in spring, the feedback was positive and there was good uptake. Of course, the majority of participants prefer in-person classes — ut with the current restrictions in place, this is the next best thing,” she said. “This session’s registration has been a bit slow, but we tend to get last-minute registrants regularly. I’m sure there are mixed feelings – some people are excited we are offering something, some people do not like the online option and would rather attend in-person.”
Information on the classes can be found at the Bold Center website. Portage College also is allowing for cohort swim lessons that will begin in February if some of the provincial restrictions are lifted.
For those that are interested in getting some physical exercise outdoors, Lattimer says that along with the new skating trail and ice rinks on Lac La Biche lake, residents now can rent out snowshoes from the Recreation Department. Anyone interested can can call 780-623-3829 to schedule a time to pick them up.
