BEAT POST-HOLIDAY BLUES WITH VILLAGE FITNESS PROGRAMS

Originally Printed:  January 17, 2013

The holidays are over, the kids are back in school — and now they are bored!

With the buildup to the holidays, and all the frantic planning, party-going and social events, what can the kids do when the celebrating is done?

Well, don’t let them just sit on the couch. Sign them up for some of the many sports and fitness classes Orland Park offers.

Sportsplex fitness manager Deborah Geghen and athletic supervisor Jack Savage clued me in on some great programs for all ages. Savage shared some of the preschool sports classes.

“The youth sports classes that the village offers are a great way for youth of Orland Park to find out what games or activities they like,” he said.

For the smallest set, My First Sports Class is a wonderful introduction to multiple sports. Kids will learn to play soccer, basketball, T-ball and floor hockey, among others.

Parents participate with their children (one parent per child ages 18 months to 2 years). The next session runs from Feb. 12 to March 16.

For ages 3 to 6, a number of classes teach the fundamentals of basketball, T-ball, soccer and hockey. In Super Sport Preschool Games, children learn a different game each week.

In this age set, children must be comfortable participating without a parent. Many classes have just begun or will begin soon.

“Parents, don’t miss out on our fun new collection of kids fitness programs for all ages, from 2 to 12,” Geghen said. “This is a great way to learn about fitness and nutrition while having a blast.”

SplexRex is an educational exercise and nutrition class offered to ages 2 to 6 and teaches the importance of fun and fitness. Children will learn the importance of fitness, presented in a fun atmosphere. T-Rex will make an appearance and lead children in an exercise routine. Session II runs Feb. 26 through April 11. Morning sessions are available.

Fitwise, a class for ages 8 to 17, gives teens a chance to work out in the fitness center under the supervision of a certified instructor. The class also teaches nutrition, proper stretching and healthy eating habits, while setting realistic goals. The next session runs Feb. 18 through March 28. Afternoon sessions are available.

Any future White Sox players in the village?

Offseason baseball conditioning is available. This program, for ages 8 to 15, is designed specifically for baseball players and will cover mobility, flexibility, strength training and power development. The program is limited to 10 participants. Sessions will run Mondays through March 14 at the Sportsplex.

Since you’re at the Sportsplex anyway with your child, consider a class for yourself. There are some new classes to check out.

Fly Yoga is a new class that uses flowing fabric hammocks to stretch further and hold poses longer, thereby gaining strength, flexibility and focus. The next session runs Feb. 18 through March 30. There are morning, afternoon and evening sessions during the week, plus a Saturday morning class. Each session is 50 minutes.

Pilates Reformer is a nonimpact, full-body exercise class that works the deep muscles of the core and helps coordinate mind, body and breath. The class is led by an instructor, and new participants are advised to take an introductory class or five private lessons before enrolling. Classes run Feb. 18 through March 30, with morning and evening sessions available during the week. Saturday morning classes also are available.

Classes that are free with a Sportsplex membership include Jelly Bellies at 5:30 p.m. Mondays, and Chisel at 6 p.m. Thursdays. Jelly Bellies is designed to tighten and firm the midsection in just 30 minutes.

Chisel will help chisel your body, with major emphasis on strength and cardio using dumbbells, benches, BOSU balance trainers and your body weight.

Remember, before starting any exercise regimen, check with your health care provider.

Consider getting an assessment at the Sportsplex to learn how to properly use the equipment, and to set fitness goals.

Keep in mind, fees are associated with some of these classes; check out the winter brochure for specifics at www.orland-park.il.us.