Bal Harbour offering free fitness classes by the beach

The village of Bal Harbour has launched a complimentary fitness program on the beach.


BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
Known for luxurious shopping, art and culture, Bal Harbour is adding another task to tourists' and residents' to-do list: fitness.

The village launched a complimentary fitness program on the beach jetty area behind the ONE Bal Harbour Resort, 10295 Collins Ave., late last month. Pilates and yoga classes are being instructed by Naomi Lowit, owner of Nomi Pilates in North Miami.

Lowit said the classes are fun for all ages and levels. ``We incorporate a little bit of everything,'' she said. ``It includes stretching, core-moving and fast-pace exercising.''

Classes take place Tuesdays at 9-10 a.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The classes are opened to residents, visitors and the public.

The village is using $1,800 from village resort tax funds to pay for the program, said Jay Smith, village director of community outreach.

Looking for ways to boost tourism, Bal Harbour recently incorporated the free Cultural Series, featuring live musical performance and outdoor movies.

Lowit is no stranger working with local municipalities to promote health. She recently held boot camp classes at Miami Beach. Lowit has been an instructor for about 10 years and said the classes are a healthy -- and frugal -- experience.

``You really don't need money. You can be at the beach, exercise and meet some new people,'' she said. ``It offers something extra they can add to their vacation.''

Classes are about 50 minutes. Participants are encouraged to bring a towel, water bottle and a mat.

The program will soon incorporate a list of speakers this summer to discuss healthy cooking methods and other fitness topics.

Fitness classes take place behind ONE Bal Harbour Resort, 10295 Collins Ave. Yoga and beach pilates are offered Tuesday from 9 to 10 a.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Classes are free to the public. For information, go to www.nomipilates.com or call 305-866-4633.