Bloomington Parks and Recreation offers Winter Tai Chi, indoor walking programs to keep community active

BLOOMINGTON — Bloomington Parks and Recreation is offering two winter programs designed to keep residents active, social, and moving during the colder months.

Winter Fitness in the Park will feature a weekly series of Tai Chi classes held inside the Switchyard Park Pavilion. The hour-long classes are open to the public and do not require pre-registration. Participants can arrive and pay $10 per person using cash or a credit card.

Tai Chi is often described as a moving meditation, combining gentle, flowing movements intended to promote balance, relaxation, and the smooth flow of energy, known as qi, throughout the body. Classes will be held on Mondays from 7 to 8 p.m. beginning Feb. 2 and continuing through March 9.

In addition, Parks and Recreation will offer Walking with Ease, a free indoor walking program that promotes one of the simplest and most effective forms of physical activity. The program takes place in a climate-controlled setting inside the College Mall, allowing participants to walk comfortably regardless of weather conditions.

Walking with Ease encourages participants to move at their own pace while incorporating light stretching and opportunities for conversation. Staff and volunteers will be available to provide encouragement and assist participants in tracking their progress. The program is designed for individuals looking to stay active, build endurance, or connect with others in a supportive environment.

Walking with Ease will be held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from Feb. 3 through March 12, running from 11 a.m. to noon at the Endwright East Active Living Community Center located inside the College Mall. There is no cost to participate.

Both programs are part of Bloomington Parks and Recreation’s ongoing efforts to support healthy, active lifestyles throughout the community.