Springfield JCC Launches Fitness Challenge to Bring Member Community Together

SPRINGFIELD — At Springfield Jewish Community Center (JCC), members are coming together for a fun fitness challenge to exercise their way across America, from East Coast to West Coast, virtually.

To take part, members simply log the miles they cover while working out in the center’s group exercise classes, six-lane indoor pool, or newly refurbished fitness center. Miles they walk, run, bike, row, or swim all count toward this virtual journey of almost 3,000 miles from Massachusetts to California. The JCC will total up the miles covered each week and track progress toward the destination on a map for all members to view.

The idea is to bring its member community together to feel more connected and more supported, as Mechilia “Chile” Salazar, chief Development officer at the Springfield JCC, explained. “We strive to be an inclusive environment where all people are welcome to learn, play, and connect. This challenge is all about giving our members a fun way to come together and be healthier and happier.”

Added Springfield JCC member Andrew Appleby, “it’s a great place to be. People here are so friendly. I just enjoy it so much.”

To kick off the challenge, JCC members were joined by state Sen. Jacob Oliveira and state Rep. Carlos González at one of the center’s high-energy cycling classes.

“The Springfield JCC’s fitness challenge is a fantastic way to bring people together while promoting health and community,” Oliveira said. “It was great to be a part of the challenge and experience the inclusive and engaging environment where everyone is welcome to participate and exercise.”

Added González, “I am proud to support the JCC, which plays a vital role in enriching the lives of our youth and strengthening our community. Together, we can ensure that these essential services continue to thrive and make a positive impact on future generations.”

Fighting an upper-respiratory infection, state Rep. Brian Ashe was disappointed to miss the event, but stated, “I always look forward to supporting the JCC and their important community-building work. I will plan to log some miles toward the fitness challenge goal once I am well and wish the JCC the best with this fun endeavor.”

Membership is open to everyone at the Springfield JCC. Members can choose from a wide variety of programs, services, and amenities for health and wellness, youth and family, cultural arts, and much more. Visit www.springfieldjcc.org for more information, or come in for a tour of the facilities.