Greater Lynn Y offers new exercise class for women

LYNN – The sight of women lifting weights may soon become more common at the Greater Lynn YMCA.A new class called Body Pump – a concept created by Les Mills – uses free-weight barbells to work the entire body.”It’s mostly a class for women who want to strengthen and tone,” said Sharon Dobbyn, the YMCA fitness director. “It’s a weight-lifting class that works your whole body. It works your muscles to the point of fatigue and then there’s an active recovery to slow down that movement.”According to Dobbyn, the barbell class challenges major muscle groups by using weight-room activities such as squats, presses, lifts and curls. “There will be great music and individual choice of weights,” she said, noting the class will be held in the room adjacent to the fitness center on the second floor.The class, with instructor Noel Richardson, will be held Saturdays from 10:30-11:30 a.m. A second class, with instructor Jennifer Dubis, will be added on Tuesdays from 4-5 p.m., starting June 23.”The class is free to members,” said Dobbyn, adding that body pumping can burn up to 600 calories per class, improve strength and general fitness, shape and tone muscles, and ward off osteoporosis.The YMCA will also re-introduce belly dancing classes on Saturdays from 9:15-10:15 p.m. No special attire is necessary for participants. “Just wear what you would wear to exercise,” said Dobbyn.The last time belly dancing classes were offered the response was heavier than expected. The class will be taught by Susan Dobrowski.”Like the body pumping class, the belly dancing is free with a membership,” Dobbyn said.For more information or to register, call Dobbyn at 781-581-3105, ext 244.