As part of the Fall River Fitness Challenge, a yoga class has been added at CD-REC to give Challenge participants the opportunity to learn how to practice this ancient art. Taught by yoga instructor Susan Spano Piacenti, the group meets several times a week to give Challenge participants and others the opportunity to learn and practice some basic postures and breathing techniques. Yoga has been shown to improve overall flexibility, strength, and balance when practiced on a regular basis. The Fitness Challenge is sponsored by the Diabetes Association, Inc. (DAI),  Community Development Recreation (CD-REC), the Fall River YMCA, General Fitness and Healthy City Fall River, and supported by grants from the United Way of Greater Fall River and Partners for a Healthier Community. The Challenge offers low cost opportunities for those who live, work or attend school in Fall River to get fit, lose weight, have fun and win prizes. Call CD-REC at 508-679-0922 for more information or go to www.FallRiverFitnessChallenge.com..

(Top row) Yoga instructor Susan Spano Piacenti begins the group with some basic breathing and centering instructions. (Middle and bottom rows) Paticipants, including Annemarie Sharkey and Mary Varao participate in the 5:00 p.m. class in the second floor dance studio at CD-Rec at 72 Bank Street.