Who: Babies
What: Parent and Child swim class
Where: University of Rhode Island, Tootell Aquatic Center, Kingston, 874-5926, uri.edu/athletics/recservices
When: Various times throughout the week.
Why: Under the direction of a certified instructor, parents guide little ones as young as six months through confidence-building beginner exercises, including kicking, bubble-blowing and back-floating. A precursor to independent swimming lessons, the class is meant to quell any fears of the water before they surface.
Who: Kids
What: Parent and Child yoga class
Where: The Yoga Loft, 16 Cutler St., Warren, 245-0881, yogaloftri.com
When: Sunday at 12:30 p.m., Monday at 1:15 p.m.
Why: Storytelling and music combine with traditional yoga poses to make for an hour that is as entertaining for parents as it is for their mini-mes. Coupled up to assist each other with the various postures, it’s the perfect opportunity to get in some quality time, and take away some new moves to practice at home.
Who: Teens
What: Open Hip Hop class
Where: Bridge to Fitness, 951 Aquidneck Avenue, Middletown, 619-0709, www.bridge2fitness.com
When: Monday at 7:30 p.m.
Why: Jackie Henderson, former director of renowned hip-hop studio Off the Curb in Newport and a regular on the New York dance scene, brings years of experience to the dance floor, teaching a different fast-paced routine each week. Regulars of all ages and experience levels keep coming back to learn the latest moves—set to popular beats like Ludacris’s “What Them Girls Like”—that are worthy of MTV play.
Who: Older Adults
What: Silver Sneakers
Where: YMCA locations statewide, 521-9622, ymcagreaterprovidence.org
When: Times vary by location.
Why: This program goes well beyond its popular eponymous classes—a modified version of a traditional aerobics workout, with chairs available to anyone needing a little extra support. In addition, depending on location, participants (fifty-five and older) have access to seated yoga, water exercise and Tai Chi, along with a host of social activities, including knitting and singing clubs, book groups and bus trips.