Special events
Café Grand Reopening
Friday, Sept. 25, from 2-6 p.m.
Meet the new Café team and try their healthy food creations. Enjoy free samples and live music. Yum!
Celebrate Together: A Family Game Night and Community Celebration
Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 6-7:30 p.m. in rooms 120, 140 and 155
Celebrate the season and an incredible year at the Healthy Community Center! Come for an evening of fun, laughter and connection featuring interactive games, friendly competition, karaoke, festive cookie decorating, refreshments and a recap of highlights and accomplishments of the past year. This event is designed to help families build community connections, create lasting memories and celebrate wellness together. Join us as we reflect on a successful year and look forward to an even brighter year ahead.
Classes and activities
We’ve developed a great list of events and activities at the The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Healthy Community Center (1600 E. Long St.). Please check back often to see what’s new or sign up for our newsletter to get center updates and a regular listing of upcoming events and activities. Everyone is welcome to participate and attend.
Please register before the event or first class in a series. In some cases, we can add you as a late entry if space allows, but it's best to secure your spot ahead of time. If you're unable to register online, please call or stop by the center in person to sign up.
-
MONDAYS
Line Dancing with the Pickett Sisters
Mondays, Oct. 12-Dec. 14, from 6-7 p.m. in rooms 120 and 140Join the rhythm! Experience high energy R&B line dancing set to soulful classics, hip hop and pop hits. All levels welcome – come dance, connect and have fun while improving fitness, coordination and confidence in a supportive environment that promotes healthy movement and social connection.
Joy Slow Flow – Yoga with Cortland Mullins
Mondays, Oct. 12-Dec. 14, from 9:15-10 a.m. in room 155Joy Slow Flow invites you into a calming, soothing yoga practice that prioritizes ease, presence and breath. This gentle class encourages unhurried movement, helping participants unwind tension, restore balance and reconnect with their bodies in a supportive, low pressure environment. Through slow transitions and intentional breathing, the practice supports flexibility, relaxation and nervous system balance. Ideal for all levels, Joy Slow Flow offers a nurturing space to decompress, recharge and carry a sense of calm into the days ahead.
Next Level Strength with Neale Davis
Mondays, Oct. 12-Dec. 14, from 5-5:45 p.m. in room 155
A progressive, intermediate strength class designed to bridge the gap between beginner strength training and high-intensity fitness. Build strength, improve endurance and gain confidence through challenging yet approachable full-body workouts.
Battle Ready Boot Camp with Neale Davis
Mondays, Oct. 12-Dec. 14, from 6-7 p.m. in room 155Unleash your inner warrior in this high-intensity boot camp combining explosive cardio, strength training and functional movement. Each session builds endurance, resilience and mental toughness – no matter your starting point. Show up, dig deep and leave stronger and more confident.
TUESDAYS
Strong, Active and Fit with Mary Curry
Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Dec. 15, from 9:15-10:15 a.m. in rooms 120 and 140Stay active and energized in this chair focused fitness class welcoming all mobility levels. Build strength, flexibility and confidence with low impact, accessible movement. This class meets Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Balance with Andie Sie – Tai Chi
Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Dec. 15, from 9:15-10:15 a.m. in room 155Discover the benefits of authentic Tai Chi with Andi Sie, a certified, 13th-generation tai chi disciple. This class helps participants improve balance and mobility, promote relaxation and stress relief and enhance mind-body connection. Suitable for all levels, each session builds on the last and can be practiced seated or standing.
Lunch Break Burn: Glutes and Core Express with Neale Davis
Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Dec. 15, from noon-12:30 p.m. in room 155Make the most of your lunch hour with Lunch Break Burn: Glutes and Core Express, a high-energy, results-focused, 30-minute workout designed to strengthen your core, sculpt your glutes and leave you feeling energized for the rest of your day. This efficient class combines strength training, functional fitness and targeted conditioning using dumbbells, kettlebells, medicine balls and bodyweight exercises to maximize results in minimal time.
Whether you're looking to build lower-body strength, improve core stability or add a quick and effective workout to your schedule, this class delivers. Participants will challenge their glutes, abs and supporting muscle groups through dynamic exercises that enhance balance, posture and overall functional fitness. Each session is designed to help you feel stronger, move better and build confidence both inside and outside the gym.
Perfect for busy professionals and anyone looking for a powerful midday workout that fits into a 30-minute lunch break.
Strength Made Simple with Neale Davis
Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Dec. 15, from 4-4:45 p.m. in room 155Strength Made Simple takes the intimidation out of strength training. Designed for beginners, this class uses dumbbells, kettlebells and exercise bands to help participants build muscle, increase mobility and feel stronger in their bodies. Expect clear instruction, manageable movements and an encouraging environment where progress happens at your pace.
Rooted Flow (Pilates) with Jasmine Jones
Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 24, from 6-7 p.m. in room 155Rooted Flow is a contemporary Pilates-inspired movement class built on the principles of breath, control, precision, concentration, centering and flow. Blending Pilates, yoga, mindful breathwork, mobility and functional strength training, this class offers a balanced and intentional movement experience.
Designed for all levels and bodies, Rooted Flow welcomes beginners while still providing a rewarding challenge. You'll build strength, improve mobility and increase body awareness through purposeful movement, with modifications offered to support your individual needs and progress.
Come ready to move, breathe and challenge yourself while leaving feeling stronger, more connected and grounded in your body.
Powerhouse Express: Glutes and Abs Edition
Tuesdays, Dec. 1-Dec. 15 with Neale Davis from 6:15-7 p.m. in room 155Powerhouse Express: Glutes and Abs Edition is an intense, results-driven, 30-minute workout designed to strengthen, sculpt and challenge your core and glutes. This high-energy class combines strength training, functional movements and targeted conditioning using dumbbells, kettlebells, medicine balls and bodyweight exercises to maximize results in minimal time.
If you've ever wanted to feel stronger through your midsection and more powerful through your lower body, this class is for you. Through consistent training, participants will develop stronger glutes, improve core stability and build the muscular foundation that supports a firmer, more toned appearance. While individual results vary, the exercises are specifically designed to strengthen the muscles that help shape the hips, glutes and abdominal region.
WEDNESDAYS
Line Dancing with the Pickett Sisters
Wednesdays, Oct. 14-Dec. 16, from 6-7 p.m. in rooms 120,140Please note: There will be no class on Oct. 28, Nov. 18 or Dec. 9.
Join the Rhythm! Experience high-energy R&B line dancing set to soulful classics, hip-hop and pop hits. All levels are welcome to dance, connect and have fun while improving fitness, coordination and confidence in a supportive environment that promotes healthy movement and social connection.
THURSDAYS
Strong, Active and Fit with Mary Curry
Thursdays, Oct. 15-Dec. 17, from 9:15-10:15 a.m. in rooms 120, 140Please note: There will be no class on Nov. 26.
Stay active and energized in this chair focused fitness class welcoming all mobility levels. Build strength, flexibility and confidence with low impact, accessible movement. This class meets Tuesdays and Thursdays.Balance with Andi Sie – Tai Chi (Room 155)
Thursdays, Oct. 15-Dec. 17, from 11 a.m.-noon in rooms 120 and 140Please note: There will be no class on Nov. 26.
Discover the benefits of authentic Tai Chi with Andi Sie, a certified, 13th-generation tai chi disciple. This class helps participants improve balance and mobility, promote relaxation and stress relief and enhance mind-body connection. Suitable for all levels, each session builds on the last and can be practiced seated or standing.Yogalates - Flow and Core with Jasmine Jones
Thursdays, Oct. 15-Nov. 19, from 10:30-11:15 a.m. in room 155This class invites you to breathe, move and soften. We’ll blend the mindful strength of Pilates with the fluid movement of yoga, helping you stretch, tone and connect – without pressure or judgment. You’ll leave feeling strong, supported and more rooted in your body. All levels welcome. Come move with love.
Universal Balance Yoga with Malik Willoughby
Thursdays, Oct. 15-Dec. 17, from 6-7 p.m. in room 155Please note: There will be no class on Nov. 26.
Beginner to intermediate Vinyasa yoga class, where movement meets mindfulness. Through a series of flowing sequences and held postures, you'll cultivate strength, flexibility and balance. Affirmations and shavasana sound bath will seal in the practice, empowering you to embody confidence, compassion and clarity. Leave feeling revitalized, renewed and radiant.Body Sculpt with Coach Dee McCray
Thursdays, Oct. 15-Dec. 17, from 6-7 p.m. in room 140Please note: There will be no class on Nov. 26.
Move, sweat and feel stronger in this high energy, full body workout designed for all fitness levels. Body Sculpt with Dee combines cardio intervals, strength training and dynamic movement to help tone the body, build lean muscle and boost metabolismwithout adding bulk. Modifications are offered so everyone can work at their own pace.
Led by master trainer Coach Demetrius “Dee,” an ISSA certified trainer with over 14 years of experience and a former Big Ten athlete, this class offers motivating instruction, energizing music and a supportive environment to help you reach your fitness goals. -
Mindfulness for Resilience with Sophie Lazarus, PhD
Tuesdays, Oct. 6-Dec. 1, from 5-7 p.m. in room 120Join Sophie Lazarus, PhD, from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, for an engaging, 8-session course designed to help participants build resilience and improve overall well-being through mindfulness practice.
Using practical, evidence-based techniques, participants will learn skills to cultivate greater awareness, manage stress more effectively and develop emotional balance in everyday life. Through guided mindfulness exercises, reflection and group discussion, you'll gain tools to help navigate life's challenges with greater calm, confidence and resilience.
In addition to reducing stress, mindfulness can support mental and emotional wellness by improving focus, strengthening coping skills, enhancing self-awareness and fostering a greater sense of connection with others. Participants may also experience benefits such as increased relaxation, improved mood and a stronger ability to respond thoughtfully rather than react automatically to difficult situations.
To gain the greatest benefit from the program, participants are asked to commit to attending at least seven of the eight sessions. A brief phone conversation will be conducted prior to the start of the course to help ensure the program is a good fit and support a positive learning experience.
The Healing Frequency: A Sound Bath Experience with Shawntay Fields
Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. in room 155
Wednesday, Nov. 23, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. in room 155Step into an immersive sound experience designed to relax your body, calm your mind and restore your energy. This Sound Bath will guide you through soothing vibrations from singing bowls, chimes and other therapeutic instruments that encourage deep rest and inner balance. Whether you’re looking to release stress, reset your nervous system or simply enjoy something new, this session offers a powerful pause from the noise of everyday life. Come curious – leave grounded, refreshed and recharged.
-
Healthy Smiles, Healthy Lives
Wednesday, Oct. 28 from 6-8 p.m. in rooms 120 and 140Join us for Healthy Smiles, Healthy Lives, an interactive Wellness Wednesday event focused on the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums for overall health and well-being. Through engaging discussions, real-life case studies, hands-on activities and a live Q & A, participants will hear from oral health and nutrition experts about proper brushing and flossing techniques, the connection between oral health and chronic disease, the impact of sugar and nutrition on dental health and how to choose science-backed oral care products.
Attendees will explore common dental myths, learn practical strategies for preventing cavities and gum disease and gain valuable insights into oral cancer awareness, preventive care and healthy daily habits. Free dental hygiene kits containing toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss and other oral health products will be available while supplies last.
A Healthy Harvest: Diabetes Awareness and Thanksgiving Dinner
Wednesday, Nov. 18 from 6-8 p.m. in rooms 120 and 140Be part of an inspiring community conversation during Diabetes Awareness Month. This special event is designed to increase knowledge about diabetes, promote healthy living strategies and connect individuals with valuable health resources. Experts in diabetes care and research will share the latest information on treatment, prevention and self-management. Guests will also enjoy a healthy, Thanksgiving-inspired meal that demonstrates delicious ways to support overall wellness.
Celebrate Together: A Family Game Night & Community Celebration
Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 6-7:30 p.m. in rooms 120, 140 and 155Celebrate the season and an incredible year at the Healthy Community Center! Come for an evening of fun, laughter and connection featuring interactive games, friendly competition, karaoke, festive cookie decorating, refreshments and a recap of highlights and accomplishments of the past year. This event is designed to help families build community connections, create lasting memories and celebrate wellness together. Join us as we reflect on a successful year and look forward to an even brighter year ahead.
-
Purpose and Reinvention: Designing Your Next Chapter, part 2 with Brandon Boyd, certified senior advisor and certified dementia practitioner with Senior Care Authority
Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in room 120This session helps seniors explore purpose beyond retirement, encouraging them to rediscover passions, set new goals and stay engaged in meaningful ways. Topics will include volunteering, mentorship, starting small businesses, creative pursuits or community leadership. You can incorporate reflection exercises or storytelling from peers who’ve reinvented themselves.
The Doctor's Visit: Getting the Most Out of 15 Minutes - Presented by Nicole Clark, MD
Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in room 120Many older adults leave medical appointments feeling rushed, overwhelmed or with important questions left unanswered. This interactive workshop led by a medical expert will provide practical strategies for making the most of limited appointment time and becoming a more confident partner in your healthcare.
Participants will learn how to prepare for appointments, practice asking effective questions, and take part in a roleplay exercise that simulates a real visit with a doctor. Attendees will also create a personalized "Top 3 Questions for My Doctor" worksheet to help guide future conversations with their healthcare providers.Then and Now: How the Decades Shaped Today
Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in room 120Take a journey through the years as we revisit memorable moments from 1956, 1966, 1976, 1986 and 1996. Through music, trivia, photos and engaging discussion, we'll explore major political events, chart-topping pop and soul songs, popular movies and television shows and the everyday costs of life, from gasoline prices to movie tickets.
As we compare these decades to today, participants will discuss how these cultural, social and economic milestones influenced the world we live in now. Along the way, attendees are encouraged to share their own memories and experiences, bringing history to life through personal stories and meaningful conversation.
More than a nostalgic look back, this interactive program supports healthy aging by encouraging social connection, stimulating memory and critical thinking and promoting lifelong learning. Reflecting on personal experiences and historical events can strengthen cognitive engagement, foster a sense of purpose and belonging and create opportunities to build new connections with others. -
CLASSES WITH J.D. FLOURNOY
Pack, Store and Go: A Lunch Guide (hands-on class)
Monday, Oct. 19 from 5-7 p.m.Save money and avoid eating out during work hours by using a foolproof guide to making a nutritious, easy and tasty lunch at home! Menu: Build-A-Bowl Buffet
How to Host a Tea Party (hands-on class)
Monday, Nov. 16 from 5-7 p.m.Learn the art of tea while preparing delectable accompaniments. Get ready to sip, savor and impress! Menu: Sweet Potato Oatmeal Biscuits, Walnut Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches and Tomato Tea Sandwiches
Knife Skills 101 (hands-on class)
Monday, Dec. 7 from 5-7 p.m.Build your confidence in the kitchen by honing foundational knife skills. In this hands-on class, Chef J.D. will take us step-by-step through knife safety and knife cutting techniques so you will feel safer and more efficient cooking at home.
*NOTE: This class is for adults 18 and over.CLASSES WITH CHEF AND REGISTERED DIETITIAN JO GOLDMAN
Meal Prep Like a Chef: Setting Up the Kitchen (cooking demonstration)
Monday, Oct. 26 from 5-6:30 p.m.In the “Meal Prep Like a Chef” series, we’ll discuss the tips and tricks chefs use to cook great food quickly. In this session, we’ll introduce the concept of the class and cover the basic techniques we’ll utilize in future classes.
Meal Prep Like a Chef: Étoufée (cooking demonstration)
Monday, Nov. 23 from 5-6:30 p.m.In the “Meal Prep Like a Chef” series we’ll discuss the tips and tricks chefs use to cook great food quickly. In this class, we’ll use those techniques to highlight the cozy flavors of a Louisiana classic. Menu: Chicken sausage étouffée over herbed rice
CLASSES WITH CHEF TREYVON BRACK
The Modern Soup Pot: Beyond Chicken Noodle (cooking demonstration)
Monday, Nov. 2 from 5-6:30 p.m.Discover how soups can become complete, balanced meals using lean proteins, legumes, whole grains and seasonal vegetables. This demonstration highlights techniques for layering flavor, reducing sodium and creating freezer-friendly recipes perfect for busy winter schedules. Menu: Italian White Bean, Turkey and Kale Soup and One-Pot Root Vegetable Spaghetti and Meat Sauce
Winter Warmers: Hearty Meals for Cold Nights (hands-on class)
Monday, Nov. 30 from 5-7 p.m.Warm up this winter by learning simple techniques to create wholesome, flavorful meals featuring seasonal vegetables and whole grains that support heart health, digestion and overall wellness. Menu: Moroccan Chicken and Chickpea Stew with Warm Spiced Couscous and Beet, Citrus and Maple Winter Greens Salad
CLASSES WITH CHEF SUNNY B.
Chef Sunny B. returns to bring us “Nourished Transitions” – a cooking class series offering practical strategies to support energy, sleep, mood, metabolism and healthy aging through flavorful meals and evidence-informed wellness practices.
Rooted and Restored: Stress, Energy and Nervous System Support (hands-on class)
Monday, Oct. 12 from 5-7 p.m.Menu: Apple Thyme Chicken with Caramelized Onions, Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic and Lemon Balm-Braised Kale
Calm, Cool and Centered: Managing Inflammation and Mood (hands-on class)
Monday, Nov. 9 from 5-7 p.m.Menu: Sage-Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin with Cranberry Pan Sauce, Roasted Butternut Squash with Holy Basil Maple Glaze and Garlic Brussels Sprouts with Parsley
Strong and Flourishing Through the Holidays: Blood Sugar, Bone Health and Healthy Aging (hands-on class)
Monday, Dec. 14 from 5-7 p.m.[PE1.1]Menu: Rosemary Beef and Mushroom Holiday Skillet, Nettle White Bean and Garlic Sauté and Cinnamon Pear Crumble
-
Blood Pressure Boot Camp: 8 Weeks to Better Health
Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Oct. 15, 22, 29. Nov. 5, 12, 19. Dec. 3, 10.
Take control of your heart health, one delicious meal at a time. This free, 8-week cooking and nutrition course is designed to support individuals managing high blood pressure or heart disease.
The curriculum covers knowing your numbers, cooking heart-healthy recipes on a budget, smart grocery shopping, physical activity, mindfulness and stress reduction and managing your blood sugar. Week by week, you’ll build a personal tool kit of habits and recipes that work together to support lower blood pressure, better energy and long-term wellness.
Participant expectations:- Complete pre- and post-class surveys.
- Track weekly blood pressure readings at the Healthy Community Center’s Higi station.
- Commit to attending all eight sessions.
Diabetes-Friendly Cooking Demonstrations
Tuesday, Oct. 27 from noon-12:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 24 from noon-12:30 p.m.
Join Certified Diabetes Educator and Registered Dietitian Jenny Shrodes, and Chef Mike Carnahan of The James Mobile Education Kitchen, for a lunchtime, diabetes-friendly cooking demonstration. Free lunch will be provided.
Cook with a Doc: Where Health Meets Flavor
Tuesday, Nov. 17 from 3-5 p.m.
Join us to discover how food can truly be medicine.
In this hands-on cooking class, community members and physicians come together in the kitchen for a fun, flavorful journey toward better health. Whether you’re looking to manage a chronic condition, learn new recipes or you simply enjoy cooking in a supportive environment, "Cook with a Doc” is the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and explore food as medicine.
What’s on the menu:- Learn practical cooking and nutrition tips.
- Cook side-by-side with healthcare professionals in a fun, relaxed setting.
- Enjoy a delicious, healthy meal together.
Cooking Matters for Diabetes
Once per week, on Tuesdays from 5-7 p.m.
Oct. 13, 20, 27. Nov. 3 and 10.
This free, hands-on cooking course is designed to support individuals managing diabetes. Participants will explore how nutrition impacts blood sugar control while building practical kitchen skills, from knife techniques to food safety. Each session includes the preparation of 2-3 diabetes-friendly, budget-conscious recipes, and you’ll receive groceries and recipes each week to recreate the meals at home.
Participant expectations:- Complete brief pre- and post-class evaluations.
- Provide a current A1c lab result (dated within two weeks of the first class),or agree to have A1c checked at both the first and final class sessions.
- Commit to attending all five sessions.
-
Moms2B is a weekly prenatal education program in partnership with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. You will have the chance to learn how to have a healthy baby and pregnancy, talk with healthcare professionals and make new friends. No registration needed. Walk-ins are welcome, and you may bring young children with you. Call Moms2B at 614-292-1605 for more information.
-
Digging In: Putting the Garden to Bed
Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 6-7 p.m. in the garden space at the Healthy Community Center
In partnership with OSU Extension, the "Digging In" series offers interactive gardening classes to learn how to create your own home gardens and grow healthy plants.
In this last session of the season, we'll learn how to "put the garden to bed." Preparing your garden before winter improves soil fertility, reduces pest and disease risk and ensures healthier growth next season. The class is led by Eugene Law, PhD, from The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.