Classes Begin at Local Recreation Centers

If you’re looking to make the most of the next few months, get fit just in time for summer, take on a new challenge this spring — or a combination of it all — one of local recreation class starting could be just what you need.

Starting this week, activities and weekly sessions begin at Berkley and Huntington Woods recreation centers, ranging from golf to Pilates to kids’ classes. Some are drop-in classes, while others offer a series to get involved and connect with friends and neighbors on a weekly basis.

Take a look at the list below and see if there’s something that interests you.

Junior golf lessons

Expert instruction for boys and girls ages 6-15 by Jim Dahline, golf professional. This 30-minute group lesson can have 5-12 students and is in cooperation with Van Dyke Golf Dome in Warren. Classes are at 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, focusing on swing fundamentals, correct grip, stance and proper swing. The class provides a videotape of your swing and instruction on the driver, full swing mechanics, putting and chipping, combined with weekly e-mail recaps. Students with clubs may bring a 7 or 9 iron to the first class. For students without clubs, there will be clubs available at no extra charge. The cost is $45 for 6.5 hours of lessons.

Here’s the schedule:

• Beginners: May 14-16, 19
• Intermediate: May 17

Sanchin-Ryu Karate

This class will be on Thursdays at the , beginning April 26 and is broken down into age groups.

• Karate for Kids - Grades K-2

Students will be trained with proven, age-appropriate techniques that are necessary for kids to protect themselves from attackers. This program is set in a fun, yet structured environment. Participants will work on self-confidence and leadership through the physical techniques, mental strategies, drills and exercises they are lead through. Sessions run 6-6:30 p.m. for eight weeks. The cost is $20 for residents and $25 for nonresidents.

• Karate for Kids - Grades 3-8

This session combines the basic age-appropriate training with a focus on healthy attitudes and will be taught by instructors with at least a 1st Degree Black Belt. Classes run 6:30-7:30 p.m. for eight weeks. The cost is $40 for residents and $45 for nonresidents.

• Karate for Families

This program is for parents and their children ages 4 and up, set in a noncompetitive and educational atmosphere. Physical techniques will be instructed along with drills and exercises for a positive experience with self-defense education. Classes run 7:30-8:30 p.m. for eight weeks. The cost is $80 for a resident family and $85 for nonresidents.

Troy Gymnastics Classes

The next round of sessions for Troy Gymnastics classes begins April 23 and runs through June 17.

All classes are beginner level and will cover basic skills on each applicable apparatus. Classes are grouped by age and cost $112-$167 for 45-55 minutes of instruction. Call 248-658-3470 for details and class availability.

Two make-up classes will be allowed, during open gym times within the session and there is a $25 nonrefundable registration fee. A waiver must also be filled out. Class prices are based on one class per week for eight weeks of instruction.

Berkley Parks & Recreation Parent-Tot Playgroup

Beginning Wednesday, parents and children 16 months to 3 years old can join other families from 10-11:15 a.m. for arts and crafts, music, games and snacks. The playgroup will run six weeks at the Berkley Community Center and will offer new themes each week. The cost is $42 for residents and $47 for nonresidents. Additional siblings can take part for $11.

Parent & Tot Fun Zone

This free daily session is for parents with children ages 2-4 and runs 10:30-11:15 a.m. The first class starts Friday and the Fun Zone will be open until May 25. Register at the front desk or call 248-541-3030.

Kidz Art

This class is categorized by age and begins today, running through June 6. Sessions for kids ages 3-5 will be at 2-2:30 p.m. and kindergarten classes will be at 3:30-4:15 p.m. each Wednesday. For more information, visit the front desk of the Recreation Center or call 248-541-3030.

Family Yoga

Classes for children ages 5 and up will run 6-6:45 p.m. Tuesday beginning this week and running through May 22. There is also a class for teens and adults from 6-7:30 p.m. beginning today and running each Wednesday until June 6.

Pilates and Zumba

Pilates and Zumba sessions begin with week and are open for registration. There are several classes to choose from:

• Pilates: 7:45-8:45 p.m. Wednesday
• Zumba Dance: 7:30-8:30 p.m Monday
• Zumba Plus Tonin: 7-8 p.m. Tuesday

Visit the front desk or call 248-541-3030 for more information.