Keeping New Year’s resolutions – Parks & Rec style

You’ve made your New Year’s resolutions, but there are already hurdles in the way of exercise. Time. Money. Convenience.

The latter two, the Huntsville Parks & Recreation Department is taking care of.

From the vast network of peaceful greenways to busy gymnasiums, there are myriad opportunities to help shed those extra pounds or get back into shape. There’s bound to be something close to you, and they come with no membership fees, no contract obligations.

“We have countless ways to help everyone keep their health-related resolutions throughout the year. Whether you enjoy group exercise classes, playing basketball, lifting weights or moving outside, we have all of that and more,” says Steve Ivey, Director of the Parks & Recreation Department.

If it’s a leisurely stroll, the 28 miles of greenways in Huntsville offer scenic routes. Or, in the face of cold weather, walking clubs are being formed at eight Parks & Recreation facilities – Berachah Gymnasium, Brahan Spring Recreation Center, Cavalry Hill Community Center, Dr. Richard Showers, Sr. Recreation Center, Fern Bell Recreation Center, Lakewood Community Center, Max Luther Drive Community Center and Optimist Recreation Center.

If you’re up for a faster pace, adult basketball leagues begin play later this month at Berachah and Lakewood gyms, or there’s nearly always a pick-up game going on somewhere at one of the many rec centers.

There are activities tailored for all age groups and for all levels of intensity and ability.

Hard-core workout enthusiasts might look toward the intense “boot camp” sessions at Cavalry Hill Community Center or there’s the competition of “pickleball,” a marriage of table tennis, badminton and tennis.

Here are some more activities and options:

— Cardio/weight rooms at Fern Bell, Brahan Spring, Showers and Cavalry Hill. Access is limited to those 16 and older, and appropriate workout attire must be worn.

— Tai Chi classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 8 a.m. at Optimist.

— Zumba! classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at Max Luther.

–Senior Balance classes at Fern Bell every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9 a.m.

— Boxing technique classes at Showers Recreation Center every Monday and Wednesday at 6 p.m.

— Freeplay basketball at Lakewood Community Center Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m.

— Pickleball at Brahan Spring on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m.

— Swimming and water aerobics at Showers Center and Brahan Spring Natatorium.

For a full list of sites and opportunities, visit the Parks & Recreation section of the City’s website.

You’ve made your New Year’s resolution. You find the time to keep them, and Huntsville Parks & Recreation Department can do the rest.