FITNESS
ONGOING Chi Gong, 9:30-10:30am Thu, Cancer Resource Centre, 926 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3349. cancerresourcecentre.com. This ancient Eastern healing art of breath, movement, non-movement and meditation will be taught through a one-hour session of warm-ups, positions and focused movements.
ONGOING Liquid Boot Camp, 7:45-8:30pm Mon, Wed, 10:15-11am Tue, Thu, Hammond Branch YMCA, 7322 Southeastern Ave, Hammond. 219. 845.1507. hammondareaymca.org. This high intensity, low impact workout provides weight and resistance training to a high intensity beat.
ONGOING Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), 6pm Tue, Thu, Duneland Family YMCA, 215 Roosevelt St, Chesterton. 219.926.4204. dunelandymca.org. MMA combines strength and endurance conditioning using stand up and ground sport combat techniques—including but not limited to boxing, Muay Thai, Kung Fu, Jiu Jitsu, grappling and more.
ONGOING The RIDE, 5-5:45pm Tue, Thu, Portage Township YMCA, 3100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage. 219.762.9622. ymcaofportage.org. Participants can pedal their way to fitness during this fun, group cycling set to music. Class size is limited to 14.
ONGOING Silver Sneakers—Muscle Strength and Range of Movement, call for dates and times, Valparaiso Family YMCA, 1201 Cumberland Crossing Dr, Valparaiso. 219.462.4185. valpoymca.org. This fun class is designed to increase strength, range of motion and activities for daily living, all while participants just move to the music.
ONGOING Zumba, 6:30-7:30pm Mon, Wed, 9:30-10:30am Tue, Thu, Griffith Branch YMCA, 201 N Griffith Blvd, Griffith. 219.750.1082. griffithymca.org. This Latin-inspired, dance-fitness class incorporates Latin and international music for a unique balance of cardio and muscle-toning workouts that tone and sculpt the body.
JUL 11-AUG 8 Adult Group Golf Lessons, 6:45-8:15pm Thu, Scherwood Golf, 600 E Joliet St, Schererville. activenwi.com. Students will learn all the elements of the game of golf from PGA member instructors. Instructions include the basics—grip, stance, swing, procedures, terminology and more. Students receive one free round of golf on the executive course at the conclusion of the four-week class.
CLASSES/SEMINARS
ONGOING C.H.O.I.C.E.S. Natural Birth & Parenting Network, 7pm, 1st Wed of the month, Hebron Community Center, 611 N Main St, Hebron. 219.996.5188. indianabirthchoices.com. This free community program brings together midwives, doulas, childbirth educators, chiropractors, breastfeeding consultants and new and expecting parents. No need to preregister. Jun 5: TBA.
ONGOING Diabetes Self-Management Classes, 1-4pm or 5-8pm Mon, Methodist Hospitals Southlake Campus Pavilion B, 8701 Broadway, Merrillville. 219.738.5550. methodisthospitals.org. Participants in this three-part class receive a comprehensive diabetes education covering all aspects of treatments, as well as prevention of chronic complications. Classes take place three Mondays in row. Participants must have physician referral.
ONGOING Health, Neck and Back Seminars, 4-5pm, Methodist Hospital’s Southlake Campus Pavilion B, 8701 Broadway, Merrillville. 888.909.3627. methodisthospitals.org. The team Spine Care Center can help identify neck or back pain and provide information about the most effective treatment possible.
MAY 28-JUN 25 Prepared Childbirth Classes, 6-9pm Tue, Methodist Hospital Southlake Campus’ Center for Advanced Clinical Studies Conference Room, 200 E 89th Ave, Merrillville. 888.909.3627. methodisthospitals.org. Recommended for pregnant mothers 7-8 months pregnant and their partner, this five-week course teaches participants about labor, delivery and the immediate post-partum period. The first four weeks focus on labor and the final week covers parenting topics. Registration by phone is required.
MAY 29 CPR, First Aid and AED Certification, 5:30-10pm, Sunset Hill Farm County Park, 775 Meridian Rd, Valparaiso. 219.465.3586. portercountyparks.org. This two-year certificate training teaches child and adult CPR and AED use, as well as how to relieve choking on a child or adult. This course teaches skills with the American Heart Association’s Practice-While-Watching (PWW) technique, which allows instructors to observe students, provide feedback and provide guidance.
JUN 5 A Holistic Approach to Pain and Fatigue, 6pm, Porter Regional Hospital Community Room, 85 E US Hwy 6, Valparaiso. 800.541.1861. porterhealth.com. Dr. Omer Ansari presents information on an integrative holistic approach for the treatment of chronic fatigue and chronic pain during this free seminar. Attendees will learn about various natural treatment options for aches and pains. Registration by phone required.
JUN 19 Cancer Symposium 2013—Cancer: Here’s How We See It, 6-8:30pm, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3477. comhs.org. During this free symposium, Dr. Lissa Rankin, M.D. will speak on Mind Over Medicine—Scientific Proof You Can Heal Yourself and Thomas Hoess, M.D. on the use of Positron Emission Mammography in breast cancer. A reception with refreshments follows the symposium.
SUPPORT GROUPS
ONGOING Alcoholics Anonymous, 8-9pm, Franciscan St. Margaret Health—Dyer Classroom F, 24 Joliet St, Dyer. 219.865.2141. franciscanalliance.org. These meetings are open to all. No registration required.
ONGOING Family Matters, 7-8:30pm, 2nd Wed of every month, Cancer Resource Centre, 926 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3349. cancerresourcecentre.com. Patients, couples, spouses and caregivers come together during this educational and support program to discuss coping with cancer in their family.
ONGOING Gluten Intolerance Group of Northwest Indiana, 7-8pm, 2nd Mon of every month, St. Mary Medical Center, 1500 S Lake Park Ave, Hobart. 219.588.9829. comhs.org. This free support group is for those with gluten intolerances, including celiac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis and other sensitivities.
ONGOING Living After Loss, call for dates and times, Methodist Hospitals Northlake Campus South Pavilion Auditorium, 600 Grant St, Gary. 219.886.4522. methodisthospitals.org. This support group is open to all adults grieving the loss of a loved one.
ONGOING Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, call for dates and times, Methodist Hospitals Southlake Campus Pavilion B, 8701 Broadway, Merrillville. 219.738.4926. methodisthospitals.org. This support group is designed for those diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and their friends and family.
ONGOING Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, 2-4pm,1st Sat of every month, Franciscan St Margaret Health—Hammond Health Resource Center Conference Room, 5454 Hohman Ave, Hammond. 219.228.6434. franciscanalliance.org. Open to families and loved ones of those living with Parkinson’s, this support group discusses issues related to Parkinson’s disease, as well as how to cope.
MAY 20 Weight No More Support Group, 6-7pm, St. Mary Medical Center Patient Tower Conference Room 3, 1500 S Lake Park Ave, Hobart. 219.836.3477. comhs.org. This support group offers information to those who have had or are considering weight-loss surgery. This meeting’s topic is “Changing Unhealthy Family Habits.”
NUTRITION
ONGOING Diabetic Diet and Meal Planning, call for dates and times, St. Mary Medical Center Education Classroom on 5 East, 1500 S Lake Park Ave, Hobart. 219.947.6234. comhs.org. A diabetes educator teaches participants about healthy eating for diabetics at this informational program.
ONGOING Nutrition Counseling, appointment only, St. Catherine Hospital, 4321 Fir St, East Chicago. 219.392.7060. comhs.org. Dietary evaluation, counseling and individualized meal planning is offered by a registered dietitian—with expertise in food allergies, weight management, abnormal blood lipid management, diabetes and more—during this session. Physician referral required.
JUN 18-19 Life in the Fast Food Lane, 10-11am Tue, Hebron Community Center, 611 N Main St, Hebron or 10-11am Wed, Sunset Hill Farm County Park, 775 Meridian Rd, Valparaiso. 219.465.3586. portercountyparks.org. Purdue Extension of Porter County representatives will teach attendees how to make healthy choices at the fast food counter.
KIDS
ONGOING Ballet Class, 4:30-5pm Tue 3-year-old class; 5:15-6pm Tue 4-7-year-old class, Southlake YMCA, 1450 S Court St, Crown Point. 219.663.5810. slymca.org. This five-week class introduces students to basic ballet positions and barre exercises, which build flexibility, strength and coordination. Children also will be made aware of music, rhythm and space. Two classes are offered, one for 3-year-old students and another for students ages 4 to 7 years old.
ONGOING Flip, Wiggle & Roll, 4-4:45pm Tue, Thu, Portage Township YMCA, 3100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage. 219.762.9622. ymcaofportage.org. Preschoolers will learn the basics of gymnastics during this fun class, which helps participants develop coordination, self-confidence, coordination, strength and pride.
ONGOING Karate, 6:30-7:30pm Wed, 6-7pm Fri Karate I; 6:30-7:30pm Mon, 7:30-8:30pm Karate II, Griffith Branch YMCA, 201 N Griffith Blvd, Griffith. 219.750.1082. griffithymca.org. Designed for children and teens ages 7 through 17, this program builds self-confidence and self-esteem through the study of martial arts as students learn how to defend themselves in a variety of situations. The eclectic style of martial arts taught during this program draws from many different disciplines.
ONGOING Sports of All Sorts, 11:15am-noon or 2:15-3pm Tue, Thu, Valparaiso Family YMCA, 1201 Cumberland Crossing Dr, Valparaiso. 219.462.4185. valpoymca.org. Children ages 4 through 6 have the opportunity to participate in a variety of games and sports—such as hockey, basketball, t-ball and soccer. The classes focus on sportsmanship, skill development and having a good time. Space is limited and registration is required.
ONGOING Tae Kwon Do, 6-7:15pm Fri, 12:30-1:45pm Sat, Hammond Branch YMCA, 7322 Southeastern Ave, Hammond. 219. 845.1507. hammondareaymca.org. Certified Tae Kwon Do instructor Bryan Razo leads teaches students the basic fundamentals and techniques of martial arts. The class is open to children ages 6 and older and class sessions run monthly.
MAY 18 Sibling Class, 10-11am, Community Hospital Auditorium, 901 MacArthur Blvd, Munster. 219.836.3477. comhs.org. This class prepares parents and children ages 3 through 10 for the arrival of a new sibling with a viewing of a video on being a sibling and a short presentation. Participants are giving a certificate for completion of the course.
JUN 3-28 Jr. Group Golf, 8am-9:30am Mon-Fri, Sherwood Golf, 600 E Joliet St, Schererville. activenwi.com. Children ages 8 to 11 years of age can learn all of the elements of the game of golf during this four-week session. Instructions include basics on grip, stance, swing, procedures, terminology and more from instructors who are all members of the PGA. Students receive a free round of golf on the executive course.
JUN 4-JUL 31 Gymnastics Classes, 2:15-3:15pm Tue or Thu, Patti’s All-American, 1530 Joliet St, Dyer. activenwi.com. This 8-week class is filled with summer fun at fitness where children learn gymnastics, tumbling and trampoline skills. Each week, the one hour class covers activities at the bars, balance beam, in-ground safety trampoline and Tumbl-Trak. Participants should wear comfortable stretchy clothing and gymnastics shoes.
JUN 5-26 Sporties for Shorties, 9-10am Wed, Stephen Park, 7600 Lincolnwood Ave, Schererville. activenwi.com. This four-week program is created for children ages 4 through 6 as an introduction to sports—including kickball, t-ball, soccer, field hockey and more. Kids will learn the concepts of running bases, team play, sharing and taking turns.
JUN 8-29 Baseball Skills Camp, Duneland Family YMCA, 215 Roosevelt St, Chesterton. 219.926.4204. dunelandymca.org. Children ages 3 through 7 will learn the basics of baseball at this three-week camp.
JUN 10-JUL 30 Kids Fit Club, 8-9:30am Mon, Wed, Sunset Hill Farm County Park, 775 Meridian Rd, Valparaiso. 219.465.3586. portercountyparks.org. Taught by Becky Kreiger and Jenna Martin, this fun workout utilizes the beauty of the outdoors while offering children in grades 3 through 6 a variety of fitness opportunities—from boot camp and intervals to yoga.
JUN 10-26 Youth Tennis, 9-10am Mon, Wed 6-8-year-old class; 10:30-11:30am 9-12-year-old class, Stephen Park, 7600 Lincolnwood Ave, Schererville. activenwi.com. With an emphasis on fun, this three-week program teaches youths how to play tennis, participate in drills and develop skills under the direction of a tennis instructor. Participants must bring their own racquet.
JUN 27-AUG 8 Youth Bowling, 4:30-5:30pm Thu, Stardust Bowl III, 1330 Sheffield Ave, Dyer. activenwi.com. Preschoolers and their parents can enjoy bumper bowling during this six-week program. The program ends with a prize raffle and pizza party. Fee includes games, shoe rental and pizza party. Jul 4: No class.
SCREENINGS
ONGOING Heart Attack, PAD Risks and Stroke Screenings, 2pm, 1st Tue of every month, Methodist Hospitals Midlake Campus, 2269 W 25th Ave, Gary. 888.909.3627. methodisthospitals.org. A variety of screenings are available. Registration required.
ONGOING Scoliosis Screening, by appointment only, Southlake Campus, NeuroScience Institute, 200 E 89th Ave, Merrillville. 219.738.4926. methodisthospitals.org. Get checked for spine curvature by making an appointment for this free screening.
ONGOING Skin Cancer Screenings, Dr. Forgey’s Office, 9am-noon, 1st Wed of every month, Dr. Forgey’s Office, 109 E 89th Ave, Merrillville. 219.769.6055. comhs.org. Call to register for these free screenings.
ONGOING Sleep Apnea Screening, call for dates and times, Duneland YMCA, 215 Roosevelt St, Chesterton. Portage YMCA, 3100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage. Valparaiso YMCA, 1201 Cumberland Crossing, Valparaiso. 219.764.4567. porterhealth.com. No appointment is necessary for these free sleep apnea screenings performed by Porter’s Sleep Disorders Institute.
MAY 29, JUN 25 Bone Density Screening, 10am-noon, 1-3pm, Hebron Public Library Meeting Room, 201 W Sigler St, Hebron. 219.263.7203. pcpls.lib.in.us. These free heel bone density screenings are offered by Porter Health Care System. Participants must be able to remove their socks. No appointment necessary.
SPECIAL EVENTS
MAY 18 Trek the Township, 6-8am check-in; 8am noncompetitive race, Haven Hollow Park, 330 W 700 N, Valparaiso. 219.762.1623 ext 31. townshipfriends.org. Fun for all ages, this 20-mile noncompetitive bicycling event takes cyclists on a scenic ride through Portage Township. The course begins at Haven Hollow Park and leads riders through country roads and along the city’s Prairie Duneland Trail before returning to the park. Proceeds benefit Portage Township Parks.
MAY 18 Tryon Farm Trail 5/10/50K Run, 8am-6pm, Tryon Farm, 1500 Tryon Rd, Michigan City. 917.328.1558. tryonfarm.com. Runners can choose from a 5, 10 or 50K run, as well as a kids’ race during this annual event. The course loops through rolling native prairie grassland, towering beechwoods and sloping dunes. The event also features a pig roast, craft beers from Shoreline Brewery, pizza from Rolling Stonebaker and house tours.
MAY 18 Walk to End Lupus Now, 9:30 am registration; 11 am walk, Lake County Fairgrounds, 889 S Court St, Crown Point. 800.948.8806. lupusindiana.org. Formerly known as the Walk for Lupus Now, this 3 mile/1 mile walk is the signature event of the Lupus Foundation of America. Participants are asked to fundraise and help raise critically needed funds for local support services and vital research. The event features a half day of fun, food and friendship with activities for the whole family to enjoy.
MAY 18-19 Green Festival, 10am-6pm Sat, 11am-5pm Sun, Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago. greenfestivals.org. Green Festival features all things green—including an organic, vegetarian and vegan food court; eco-fashion exhibits; hands-on DIY workshops; live music; an organic beer and wine garden; keynote presentations and a nationally renowned green marketplace with products and services from local and national green and sustainable businesses and organizations.
JUN 1 Healthy Hustle, 7-7:45am check-in; 8am race; 8:01am walk, Sunset Hill Farm County Park, 775 Meridian Rd, Valparaiso. porterhealth.com. Hosted by Porter Regional Hospital, this 5K Run/Walk takes place on a cross country course. Awards will be given to the top 5K run finishers in each age division, as well as overall male and female awards. Proceeds benefit Lakeshore PAWS.
JUN 2 Leon’s Triathlon, 8am, Wolf Lake Park, 2405 Calumet Ave, Hammond. leonstriathlon.com. Billed as the “world’s fastest triathlon,” this Olymic distance race allows participants to bike, swim and run their way through Northwest Indiana while millions of households across the nation watch on Comcast SportsNet. The race includes a 0.9 mile swim, a 24.6 mile biking portion and a 6.2 mile running portion. Participants can register individually, as teams and as a relay. Also, Jun 1: Demo Day.
JUN 8 14th Annual Walk for Sojourner Truth House, 8am registration; 9am walk, Froebel Park, Gary. walkforsth.org. There is no fee to register for this walk, but participants are asked to raise a minimum of $100 to support Sojourner Truth House, a community resource and day center for homeless and at-risk women and children.
JUN 22 Firecracker 5K, 6-7am registration; 7:30am race, Franciscan Omni Health and Fitness, 810 Michael Dr, Chesterton. 219.983.9832 ext 278. franciscanalliance.org. This annual 5K run/noncompetitive walk takes a flat tour through the neighborhood adjacent to the hospital. Prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each age category and overall and masters winners.
JUN 23 Family Health/Cancer Awareness Day, 9am race; 11am-3pm activities & entertainment, Indiana Dunes State Park, 1600 N CR-25 E, Chesterton. 219.840.0007. franciscanalliance.org. Racers can run, walk, bike or paddle to beat cancer at this 5K race. Awards will be given to top runners, bikers and paddlers. After the race, the public is invited to enjoy various activities and entertainment—including face painting, magic arts, beach volleyball, kite flying, musicians, a fashion show and more.
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