Fitness Classes
Bykota fitness classes are designed specifically for older adults, offering a safe and supportive environment to build strength, endurance and balance, all while enjoying the company of others. Every class is adaptable to all fitness levels.
Current Fitness Classes
Chair & Standing Yoga: Gentle Movement for Mind and Body
Instructor: Joan DeSimone
Cost: $40 per class per session (payable by cash or check to Bykota Senior Center Council)
Schedule:
Tuesday Class: 10:00–11:00 AM (Room 208–210)
Thursday Class: 10:30–11:30 AM (Gym)
Current Session Dates:
Tuesdays: October 7 – December 16
Thursdays: October 9 – December 18
Description:
This calming, accessible class is designed to improve flexibility, balance, and overall well-being—no floor work required. Suitable for all fitness levels.
Each class includes:
🪑 Seated poses
🧍 Standing movements
🌬️ Breathwork and mindfulness
🔄 Gentle flow sequences
EnhanceFitness: Stay Active, Stay Connected
Instructor: Suzanne Diehl
Cost: $45 per session (payable by cash or check to Baltimore County Department of Aging)
Schedule:
Tuesdays & Wednesdays: 10:00–11:00 AM (Gym)
Thursdays: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM (Gym)
Current Session Dates: October 7 – December 16
Description:
EnhanceFitness is a low-cost, evidence-based group exercise and falls prevention program that helps older adults at all levels of fitness become more active, energized, and empowered. Attendance is tracked. A three times a week commitment is preferred for participants. Fitness Assessment is completed at the start of the session. Classes include resistance training with light weights, cardio, mobility and balance.
Each class includes:
💓 Low-impact cardio
⚖️ Balance exercises
💪 Strength training with light weights
🧘 Gentle stretching
Essentrics
Instructor: Martha Nathanson
Cost: $30 per session (payable by cash or check to Baltimore County Department of Aging)
Schedule:
Wednesdays: 1:00-2:00 PM (Gym)
Current Session Dates: October 7 – December 16
Description: Essentrics is a fitness technique combining elements of ballet, Tai Chi, and physiotherapy to rebalance the body through dynamic stretches and strengthening exercises. It focuses on low-impact, full-body movements that improve flexibility, mobility, and posture while relieving pain and stiffness. The technique utilizes body weight as resistance, emphasizing eccentric musle contractions and slow, flowing movements to decompress joints and relax muscles.
Line Dancing: Fun, Fitness & Friends
Instructor: Ruth Rarick
Cost:
Beginners: $35 per class per session (check payable to Bykota Senior Center Council)
Intermediate: Suggested $5 donation per class (cash or check)
Schedule:
Beginners: Tuesdays, 12:30–1:30 PM (Gym)
Intermediate: Fridays, 1:30–3:00 PM (Room 208–210)
Current Session: October 7 – December 16
Description:
Line Dancing is a social and energizing way to stay active. No experience needed—learn fun routines to music while improving coordination and enjoying community.
Highlights:
🎶 Easy-to-follow dance routines
🕺 Step-by-step instructions
🤝 Group participation
🌟 Upbeat, lively music
Instructor: Michael Thomas
Cost: $30 per session
Schedule:
Mondays: 9:00–10:00 AM
Room: Bykota 208-210
Current Session: October 8 – December 17
Description: This new Self Defense class led by a highly experienced martial arts expert and a Retired Trooper from the Maryland State Police. The class is designed to build confidence and teach effective defensive skills for real-life situations. Michael is also dedicated to assisting students in achieving balance, energy, and harmony in their lives, skills he shares frequently at local Baltimore County Senior Centers to help with fall prevention. Train with a proven expert in safety, self-defense, and balance.
Senior Rhythms: Start Your Fitness Journey
Instructor: Video-based program (no live instructor)
Cost: Free
Schedule:
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays: 11:00–11:45 AM (Room 208–210)
Description:
Perfect for beginners or those returning to fitness. Developed by cardiac rehab specialists, this seated, supportive class boosts heart health, stamina, and muscle tone.
Class features:
🎥 Video-guided instruction
💪 Use of resistance bands and stress balls
🪑 Seated and accessible for all fitness levels
🤗 Supportive, long-standing community
Strength and Balance with Suzanne
Instructor: Suzanne Diehl
Cost: $30 (payable by cash or check to Bykota Senior Center Council)
Schedule:
Tuesdays: 1:45-2:45 (208-210)
Session Dates: October 7 – December 16.
A one-hour program designed to increase your mobility, strength, and balance. Resistance movements include light weights for upper and lower body, and core isolation, as well as a variety of balance and general conditioning segments in every hour. Please bring your own weights.
Tai Chi: Graceful Movement for Strength & Serenity
Instructor: Eric Johnson
Cost: $40 per session
Schedule:
Tuesday: 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Current Session: October 7 – December 16
Description:
Rooted in ancient Chinese tradition, Tai Chi promotes balance, flexibility, and a sense of calm. Ideal for those seeking a mindful, low-impact workout.
Each class includes:
🌬️ Deep breathing
🌀 Flowing movement
⚖️ Balance-focused postures
🧘 Mindful transitions
Zumba Gold Toning: Dance Your Way to Fitness
Instructor: Suzanne Diehl
Cost: $35 per session
Schedule:
Wednesdays: 9:00–10:00 AM
Current Session: October 8 – December 17
Description:
Zumba Gold Toning is a fitness programs that combines the fun, low-impact dance moves of Zumba Gold with the muscle-toning benefits of Zumba Toning. It is designed for active older adults and beginners, focusing on strength training with light weights or Zumba Toning Sticks to enhance muscle conditioning, improve definition, and increase endurance. Weights are always optional.
Each class includes:
💃 Simple routines for heart health
🕺 Rhythmic moves for balance and coordination
🎶 Music to boost mood and energy
🤗 Social fun and connection
Fitness Class Registration Policies
Who Can Register? Current Bykota membership is required to register for classes and for most programs.
How Do I Register? Register at the front desk for classes that require it. Drop-in classes do not require registration. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Dates, times, and prices are subject to change.
How Can I Pay? Full payment for all activities is required at the time of registration. Payment can be made by cash or by check.
What about Refunds and Cancellations? No refunds of registration fees will be given unless the class is cancelled. Due to contracts, refunds will not be given once the class begins. Classes must meet a minimum number of students enrolled to avoid being cancelled. The Bykota Senior Center reserves the right to cancel a class due to under-enrollment or unforeseen circumstances. If a class is canceled, full refunds will be given.