A non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life on Longboat Key by promoting accessible healthcare and providing year-round lifestyle enrichment programs.
Ongoing programs below are FREE for Members, $15 for Non-Members
Tai Chi & Qi Gong are held outdoors (weather permitting).
We also have FREE Monthly Memory Screenings courtesy of The Roskamp Institute. Call 941.383.6493 to secure your spot!
MONDAYS
10-11am – Stretch & Strengthen Designed for ALL fitness levels to increase flexibility, strength and balance. All exercises are done seated in a chair or standing. Feel free to bring light hand weights (we have some 2-5 pounds).
1-3pm [ON HIATUS for the SUMMER] Thinking Out Loud Discussion Group hiatus for the summer! Mike Karp moderates this lively group discussion with varying topics (suggestions emailed ahead of time). Issues may include world affairs, U.S. politics, local news, popular culture and topics relevant to seniors. Bring your questions, your convictions…and your open mind!
TUESDAYS
10-11am Qi Gong Taught by experienced instructor Sandi Love, Qi Gong is an ancient healing art designed to improve your mental and physical wellbeing. Its gentle moves can benefit those who play golf or tennis and/or who suffer with hip or back pain, such as sciatica. The stretching movements support agility and flexibility, making you less likely to injure yourself while exercising, and the breathing techniques and focused intent can help calm your mind and ease anxiety.
11:15am-12:15pm Yoga [No class June 6th] with Debby Debile through June!
Debby Debile, founder of Feel Good Yoga & Massage, will be offering Yoga at The Paradise Center. Debby has 40 years of group exercise instruction, 200 hours Anusara Yoga and 300 hours Hatha Yoga and is also a registered E-500 RYT with the Yoga Alliance. Debby specializes in helping you “feel good” with better alignment – no matter what age or what shape you are in! The class is gentle and can be done from a chair if desired.
1-3pm Mah Jongg
Join other experienced Mah Jongg players for an afternoon of fun and friendship! RSVP Required: Amy@TheParadiseCenter.org Contact Amy for info on beginner classes, too!
WEDNESDAYS
10-11am Beginner Tai Chi with Certified Instructor Reuben Fernandez
Held outdoors (weather permitting), this beginner Chen Tai Chi class is recommended for those who are interested in improving their overall health and wellbeing by utilizing simple, easy-to-follow exercises and breathing techniques. Tai Chi is an ancient art with roots in the philosophy known as Taoism. Its purpose is to learn how to relax internally, improve your sense of balance and release anxiety and stress. No special equipment is required; closed shoes with low heels are recommended (not running shoes). All experience and fitness levels welcome!
THURSDAYS
10-11am Zumba & Mat Pilates with Certified Instructor Suzy Brenner
This class, designed for active seniors, is so much fun, you’ll forget you’re exercising! Begin with 30 minutes of Zumba: move your body to Latin and upbeat music…tone muscles, improve balance & coordination. Then finish with mat Pilates – working on flexibility and strengthening core muscles. Come for 30 or 60 minutes!
OPEN Mah Jongg! Thursdays, 1-3pm Bring your friends or make new ones at Open Mah Jongg! Tables of 3 or 4, depending on attendance. We have some sets, but feel free to bring your own. No reservation required; simply show up at 1pm. Refreshments available.
FRIDAYS
10-11am Intermediate Tai Chi with Certified Instructor Reuben Fernandez
Held outdoors (weather permitting), this intermediate class will include all of the elements of Wednesday’s beginner class, but will focus more intensively on the Chen Style form, Lao Da Djia.
This Chen Tai Chi class is recommended for those who are interested in improving their overall health and wellbeing by utilizing simple, easy-to-follow exercises and breathing techniques. Tai Chi is an ancient art with roots in the philosophy known as Taoism. Its purpose is to learn how to relax internally, improve your sense of balance and release anxiety and stress. No special equipment is required; closed shoes with low heels are recommended (not running shoes).
11:15am-12:15pm Qi Gong & Meditation Taught by experienced instructor Sandi Love, Qi Gong is an ancient healing art designed to improve your mental and physical wellbeing. Its gentle moves can benefit those who play golf or tennis and/or who suffer with hip or back pain, such as sciatica. The stretching movements support agility and flexibility, making you less likely to injure yourself while exercising, and the breathing techniques and focused intent can help calm your mind and ease anxiety. This class will close with 10 minutes of guided meditation.
ALSO…
MON-FRI, 9:30am-3:00pm
We have Juvent Micro Impact Platforms for your use!
Stand on one of our Juvent platforms to increase your range of motion and improve your balance, stability and bone density. Initially developed by NASA for astronauts returning from space, the Juvent has been found to have considerable benefits for all of us! Reservations are NOT required. Suggested donation of $5 per use. More info at Juvent.com.
