Walk & Weights Fitness Classes at the JCC Indianapolis
FREE FOR MEMBERS
Get your cardio in and do weight training at the same time at the JCC Indianapolis!
Benefits of Walking with Weights
- Using hand weights can lead to a higher calorie burn due to the added resistance to your natural arm swing when walking.
- Using very light hand weights for resistance when walking can be helpful after a stroke or for those with Parkinson’s disease or other similar neurological conditions because it allows you to incorporate multiple functional activities while walking around.
- Handheld weights engage the upper body, contributing to a more balanced workout.
- The weight adds variety and increases the demands on your heart and muscles, potentially offering a range of additional benefits, including:
- Boosts cardiovascular endurance
- Developing core and leg strength
- It may help to build bone density
What to Expect
It is best to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing.
These classes are free as a benefit of membership and are for JCC members only. Become a member today!
Check our Schedules page for group exercise dates and times.
About the Instructors
Lindsey Jay
Lindsey’s passion for fitness skyrocketed her senior year of college at Ball State University – she ran her first mini marathon that year (2012) and has averaged 1-2 mini marathons every year since. She became certified to teach Zumba in 2014 and A.C.E. certified for personal training in June 2020.
Lindsey’s personal experience of staying fit through pregnancy and then working on toning and losing weight postpartum has led her to specialize in working with pregnant and postpartum women, helping them regain core strength that was lost during pregnancy.
While she loves helping everyone in their fitness journey, she has a special place in her heart for helping women feel confident in their own skin and creating healthy routines to implement.
Laurel Hess
A successful racer herself, Laurel Hess is a Level 3 certified USA Cycling Coach who holds several group exercise certifications. She earned a degree in Sports Management with a concentration in Health and Fitness so she could help others experience the joys of healthy, fitness-oriented, or competitive lifestyles. Having recovered from two serious accidents, Laurel is distinguished from other coaches by her experience being knocked down and rising again. She understands the frustration of needing to rebuild fitness or confidence after a setback.
Debbie Thompson
Debbie’s classes are a “you do you” environment where everyone progresses at their own speed and comfort level. You choose the level you do and burn calories, tone muscles, and have a great time – what a combination!! A bit about Debbie – she wasn’t always fit and fine. She’s lost 60+ pounds and understands how tough life can be. She offers encouragement and support to her students – age, weight, stress – this class is for you. Debbie looks forward to meeting each one of you!
Fitness Is a Core Jewish Value
At the JCC, fitness classes aren’t just something we do; it’s who we are. Although exercise is not mentioned in the Torah, taking care of one’s health is. In fact, while other belief systems advocate for the healing power of prayer, Judaism encourages people to look after their health and seek counsel from medical experts. In Judaism, good health is not a goal in itself; rather, it is a means to an end – to serve the Creator.
We offer classes and options for exercise the way you want it, whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or looking for expert advice and/or someone to hold you accountable. It all starts with you.