Fitness at the Plaza Sponsored by Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York

New York State Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner Jeanette Moy today announced the January 3 start of the popular Winter Fitness at the Plaza program presented by Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York.

Fitness at the Plaza classes are free and open to individuals of all ages, regardless of fitness level or experience. For the first time, the classes will be held in the Empire State Plaza event space known as Cornerstone at the Plaza, which is located between the Corning Tower and The Egg Center for the Performing Arts. Classes will run from 5 to 6 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday from January 3 through March 30.

“Just in time for those who made getting in shape part of their New Year’s resolution, the Winter Fitness at the Plaza program helps New Yorkers living and working in Albany and throughout the Capital District maintain an active and healthy lifestyle throughout the year,” Commissioner Moy said. “We want to thank our generous sponsor, Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York, and our Pilates instructors from the Hot Yoga Spot and our Zumba instructor Anzala for joining OGS to provide the State workforce and the public with this opportunity to keep fit.”

“Our long-standing partnership with the Office of General Services continues to allow our health plan to connect the community to healthy activities all year long,” said Keith Dolan, Vice President, Regional Sales, Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York. “Fitness at the Plaza offers a free and convenient way for those living and working in Albany to stay active during the winter months.”

Classes

Tuesdays: Pilates with The Hot Yoga Spot:

Refresh, restore, and rejuvenate with a Pilates session that is suitable for all levels of experience. This class offers students an opportunity to strengthen the body and improve flexibility with an emphasis on core strength. Instructors will go step by step through the individual exercises to learn proper execution, alignment, and modifications to suit specific physical needs and coordinate breath to each movement. This series of classes is great for anyone new to Pilates or who wants to brush up on their skills. 

Thursdays: Zumba with Anzala:

Zumba combines cardio, muscle conditioning, and a mix of low- and high-intensity dance moves that offer a fun fitness program. Considered “exercise in disguise,” Zumba offers a total body workout while dancing to Latin and other international rhythms. Participants will enjoy a calorie-burning workout led by Anzala, who is full of energy and will transform the class into a dance party.  All fitness levels are welcome, and no experience is necessary. 

Fitness classes will not be held during Presidents’ Day week on Tuesday, February 21, or Thursday, February 23. 

All participants are required to sign a waiver in order to participate and must bring their own exercise mats and towels. People are encouraged to pre-register and sign the waiver in advance at www.empirestateplaza.ny.gov. Walk-ins are also welcome.