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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Workout season in the city: Free classes offered downtown

People are getting sweaty in downtown Spokane – and it’s not just because of the heat.

The Summer Workout Series, sponsored by Downtown Spokane Partnership and Numerica Credit Union, kicked off Monday at the Tribal Gathering Place next to City Hall.

It’s an expansion of the weekly yoga nights that were offered last summer, said Elisabeth Hooker, marketing and programming manager for Downtown Spokane Partnership.

The Wednesday night classes were popular, often with more than 100 people, she said. “It took off like gangbusters, people really liked it.”

So this year, there are four nights of classes. And, they’re all free.

“We’re really excited about the classes we’re offering, there’s some nice variety,” Hooker said.

In addition to yoga on Wednesdays, now barre will be offered Mondays and body combat or grit cardio on Tuesdays. And, while all of the workouts are open to all ages and abilities levels, Thursdays are family night with kids dance and family movement.

As an added bonus: Mobius Science Center will be open late on Thursdays with $5 admission from 5 to 8 p.m.

Participants need to sign a waiver to take part in the classes (one is good for the entire summer). For yoga and barre, bring a yoga mat, and light weights for barre, too, if you have them. Otherwise, wear comfortable workout clothes and shoes and be ready to have fun and get fit, Hooker said.

It’s the perfect opportunity for people who are looking to try different exercise styles to dip their toe in, she said.

“It’s a great way to get fit without a lot of commitment.”

And though the days have been hot, the sessions start as the evening is cooling down and the plaza is getting shady, Hooker said.

“It’s a great temperature for a workout and there’s some breeze off the river,” she said.