To all ages and fitness levels, the free Saturday park sessions are a great way to get active and enjoy the outdoors. Taking place in Ashburton Park, these sessions are organised in collaboration with FOAP (Friends of Ashburton Park) and aim to rejuvenate the local park and promote community spirit.
In addition to the park sessions, Body Harmony also offers online sessions via Zoom every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:15 am to 11:30 am. These sessions provide a convenient way to participate in the programme from the comfort of your own home.
For those looking for a more structured and indoor setting, Body Harmony holds sessions at Ashburton Hall every Thursday and Friday at 10:30 am. These sessions require no booking and only cost 2 to cover expenses. Participants are encouraged to wear loose clothing and proper footwear and can enjoy refreshments at the end of the session at the friendly caf.
Body Harmony classes have been running since 2005 and were originally started by Keith Nicholas, an experienced and fully qualified martial artist, in collaboration with the local residents association. The programme was created to provide a holistic fitness class with roots in traditional martial arts and catered to a segment of the community that was underserved.
Over the years, Body Harmony classes have proven to be extremely popular and beneficial for participants. The programme allows individuals to adapt the movements to suit their personal needs, making it accessible to those with disabilities or physical ailments that may otherwise prevent them from participating. The gentle form of exercise has been shown to improve posture, breathing, toning, flexibility, balance, circulation, and overall well-being.
More than just a fitness programme, Body Harmony also fosters a sense of community spirit and provides a fun and social activity for participants to enjoy. Regardless of fitness level, the programme ensures that individuals work within their capabilities and offers gentle encouragement to explore their limits and live their lives to their full potential with dignity and self-esteem.
As a testament to the effectiveness and popularity of Body Harmony, the programme has expanded to include sessions at various libraries in Croydon, including Ashburton, Selsdon, and New Addington. These sessions have quickly gained popularity and space is running out fast, so interested individuals are encouraged to contact the respective libraries directly for session details, times, and bookings.
In summary, Body Harmony is a holistic fitness programme in Croydon that offers a free flowing programme of movements for well-being and general fitness. With a focus on adaptability, inclusivity, and community spirit, the programme allows individuals of all ages and fitness levels to reap the benefits of improved physical and mental well-being. From park sessions to online classes and indoor sessions, Body Harmony offers a variety of options to cater to different preferences and needs.