New Programs for 2012 at the Hunterdon County YMCA

The Winter Session of classes at the Hunterdon County YMCA begins on January 9 and will run through February 26. Open registration begins on December 11. A wide variety of classes and programs have been added for the Winter Session.

Beginning in January the Hunterdon County YMCA will offer Group Core, a 30 minutes group exercise class. Benefits include a strong core, improved athletic performance, and prevention of back pain. Participants use their body weight, weight plates, a towel and a platform.

Also new at the Y for 2012 is Tai Chi (Taiji-Quam Style). Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese system of exercise created for the purpose of achieving a healthy balance between spirit, mind and body. Benefits include improved health, memory, and ability to focus, stress reduction, self-control and artistic expression.

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a new twelve-week program for cancer survivors. Participants increase strength and endurance with certified LIVESTRONG instructors. There is no cost for this program and it is open to members and non-members.

For those at high risk for type 2 diabetes, the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program can help adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle that will help reduce the chances of developing diabetes. In a classroom setting, a trained lifestyle coach will help facilitate a small group of participants in learning about healthier eating, physical activity and other behavior changes over the course of 16 one-hour sessions. After the initial 16 core sessions, participants meet monthly for added support to help maintain progress.

The YMCA has teamed up the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (Dept. of Homeland Security) to provide a hands-on course, called Paddle Sports America. Classroom and pool components will cover boating safety, boating rules of the road, water rescue and more. Presented by a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Officer and an experienced YMCA boating instructor. Course fee includes pool time, books and handouts. Parents are encouraged to participate with the children. Scout Groups welcome!

For the home schooled child, the Y will offer Home School Physical Education program on Tuesdays from 1:00-3:00 pm. The PE program includes one hour of sports, games and basic physical education exercises. Participants will also have one-hour of free swim.

YMCA instructor Miss Terri will lead a new class for children ages 4 to 6 called Rockin in the USA. Each week children will “visit” a different state and learn new games, sports and activities specific to each state. This class will be offered at both the Deer Path and Round Valley Branches.

A Triathlon Training Program will begin in February.


The Y will host a Valentines Party and Open House on February 12 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Deer Path Branch. This free event, which is open to the entire community, will feature a moon bounce, open swimming, and an appearance from NJ 101.5 FM.

For more information, or to view the Winter Program Guide online visit www.hcymca.org . The Hunterdon County YMCA is a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.