May 25, 2020

Ladysmith PRC restarting registered programs as of June 1

As part of the Town of Ladysmith’s gradual reopening of our facilities and administrative offices, Parks, Recreation and Culture (PRC) is restarting its registered programs to begin offering live virtual courses and small in-person classes outside.
 
During COVID-19, PRC's 'QuaranTeam' has offered complimentary online programs and classes daily to help keep the community active, while also staying apart during this difficult time. 
 
The successful launch of this free fitness content was inclusive to all ages and abilities and focused on improving the overall wellness of our local residents. 
 
As of June 1,  PRC will begin offering some registered fitness programs, delivered to the high standard that patrons have grown to expect from our dedicated team of instructors. 
 
We have adapted our drop-in classes to be mainly ‘virtual’, with a limited number of in-person offerings. 
 
"Thank you to the community for your patience as we continue to review all of the latest guidelines from the Province and implement the recommended protocols for physical distancing and public health," said Acting CAO Erin Anderson. 
 
“When we reopen at the beginning of June it will be done safely and that means for both our residents and Town staff.” 

Virtual and in-person classes
 
By now offering live virtual classes through Zoom – a free video conferencing platform that can be downloaded for your handheld device or computer – PRC instructors will be able to engage with you during the class, offer important feedback and respond directly to questions.
 
Registered fitness programs available in June through Zoom will focus on low to moderate cardio, strength and stability, yoga and core.  We’ll offer classes on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday to meet your schedule.
 
Additionally, the Town is excited to be able to offer four outdoor in-person registered classes at Forrest Field and the Frank Jameson Community Centre upper parking lot.  These programs on Tuesday and Thursday will target anyone interested in cardio, high-intensity interval training or a spin class.
 
We are working to be able to provide a fitness environment that allows for physical distancing and meets the guidelines from the Ministry of Health, Island Health and the BC Recreation and Parks Association for cleaning, sanitization and personal hygiene among participants.
 
By holding a select number of classes outdoors in a open spaces we can ensure safety parameters among all participants.
You can learn more about some of the ‘new normal’ by reading Frequently Asked Questions for these virtual and in-person registered classes.

We kindly request that parents and caregivers find childcare arrangements and avoid bringing toddlers or young children to classes. 

Registration for all classes will be through RecCowichan, or by calling the FJCC at 250.245.6424. 
  
Free virtual Isolation Recreation content will continue to be offered daily with a variety of themes focusing on youth, fitness and general wellbeing. All of the videos can be found on PRC's YouTube channel. 
   
You can also receive up-to-date information in your email inbox by subscribing to the Town’s newsletter.