Monday

06-02-2025 Vol 1979

Boston Launches 2025 Parks Summer Fitness Series with Free Classes

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), is excited to announce the return of the 2025 Boston Parks Summer Fitness Series, proudly sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.

This series will consist of 25 free weekly fitness classes, available both virtually and in various parks throughout the City of Boston, running from May 4 to August 30, 2025.

A kick-off event will take place at Christopher Columbus Park in the North End on Thursday, May 15, at 5:30 p.m., featuring complimentary Bota Fogo Dance Fitness and Yoga sessions, along with exciting giveaways.

Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The kickoff of the free Summer Fitness Series offers all Boston residents the chance to enjoy a wide array of activities in our parks.

Thank you to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Boston Parks and Recreation Department, and the Boston Public Health Commission for your partnership, giving us all the opportunity to engage with our parks in a fun and healthy way.”

The Summer Fitness Series boasts a diverse range of classes tailored to meet the interests of residents.

Participants can look forward to activities including Yoga, Chair Yoga, High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), ZUMBA®, Kick It By Eliza®, Walking Groups, Strength and Balance classes, Line Dancing, Barre Fusion, and Latin Fusion Dance.

The program emphasizes accessibility, offering age-friendly classes suitable for families, older adults, and individuals who may be new to fitness.

For more information, including a link to the full schedule, interested parties can visit boston.gov/fitness.

“Our parks are some of the most powerful tools we have to support health and cultivate community here in Boston,” said Brian Swett, Chief Climate Officer and Interim Commissioner of Boston Parks and Recreation.

He added, “By activating public parks with free programming and initiatives like the Summer Fitness Series, we’re not only providing opportunities for physical activity but also fostering social connections and enhancing the overall well-being of Boston residents.”

Public health officials emphasize the importance of initiatives like this for community health.

Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston, noted, “The Summer Fitness Series is a free and accessible opportunity for residents of all ages to enjoy Boston’s great parks while being active and improving their health and well-being.

Strategies like the Summer Fitness Series help reduce the risk of chronic disease and form a vital part of our city-wide population health equity agenda, Live Long and Well.

By improving access to safe spaces where everyone can engage in physical activity, we ensure that Boston is a city where all residents can thrive.”

Additional comments from partners highlighted the initiative’s role in community engagement.

Jeff Bellows, vice president of corporate citizenship and public affairs at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, stated, “The Boston Park Fitness series celebrates our city’s diverse neighborhoods and cultures.

Through fitness, we connect communities.

Whether in-person or virtual, there’s something for everyone, and we’re proud to partner with the City of Boston to promote physical and mental well-being.”

For updates and to stay informed about weather-related cancellations of outdoor fitness classes, residents are encouraged to visit Boston.gov/Parks.

For any inquiries, they can call 617-635-4505 or follow the Boston Parks Department on social media platforms, including X, Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky.

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department manages over 2,200 acres of public open space across 288 properties, offering opportunities for walking, play, and cultural engagement for people of all ages.

Learn more at boston.gov/parks and sign up for updates at bit.ly/Get-Parks-Emails.

image source from:https://caughtindot.com/city-of-boston-kicks-off-free-summer-fitness-series-2/

Charlotte Hayes