Recreation Department keeps residents moving

In a time when families are facing challenges when it comes to keeping active, the Shafter Recreation Department has been helping keep residents fit and healthy.

With the department having to shelve the majority of their sports programs due to the pandemic, District Manager Philip Jimenez and his staff have come up with a variety of programs.

In addition to having virtual exercise classes for seniors, the department is now holding three different clinics throughout the month, inviting residents to register for a time of fun, exercise and virtual fellowship.

They are holding a Walking Club, Cycling Club and Running Club for those interested in some competition and activity.

Each club has three different divisions, Individual, Family and Team. It is all a friendly competition.

"These clubs are a great way to stay motivated and active. We are also giving out monthly prizes," Jimenez said.

The clubs are designed for participants to go at one's own pace, time and distance. There is no set time, mileage or speed required.

The registration will cover the program, a t-shirt and a mask for every participant.

The Recreation Department is also holding a Virtual Zumba Class and a program called 746 Sports. In this program, children can choose from eight different sports. Each sport will have a daily lesson. Each day your child learns and practices three new drills using their signature teaching method, talk, teach and play. The instructor will explain the purpose of each drill, teach your child how to perform the drill, and then your child will pause the video to play.

Jimenez said that the need to exercise and stay fit does not stop because of the virus, forcing residents to create their own activities and ways to keep busy.

"We care about our community and enjoy helping each member of our community to keep healthy," said Jimenez.