The arrival of fall strikes many as a good time for people of all ages to give some thought to health, to fitness, and to getting themselves moving, with an eye to reducing stress, gaining strength and balance, and developing focus.  A variety of classes offered at The Andover Community Hub teach these skills in many ways.

Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art that is studied to learn self-defense, fitness, self-confidence, self-control and discipline. Karate classes are taught at The Hub on Mondays by Tiger Mountain Shotokan Karate for both kids and adults.  Beginners ages six to eight meet at 4:45 PM, beginners age nine through adults meet at 6 PM, and intermediate and advanced students meet at 7 PM. Classes are offered on an ongoing basis at a charge of $65 per month and students may begin at any time.  For more information, contact Gayle Fleming at 477-3174.

For an opportunity to see a karate class in action, stop in at the Tiger Mountain Open House, held at Whipple Hall in New London, on Wednesday, September 4, at 6 PM.

Yoga combines physical exercises, meditation, and breathing techniques to strengthen muscles, improve balance, and relieve stress.  The yoga classes offered at The Hub are gentle flow classes, and beginners as well as those with experience are welcome. There is an ongoing drop-in class on Fridays beginning September 6,  8:15-9:15 AM. The fee is $10 per session. There is also a monthly series on Wednesdays beginning September 4, 5 to 6 PM, for which students need to pre-register and pay by the month. The fee is $44 for four sessions.  To register, contact teacher Maris Wofsy at Maris.Wofsy@nullgmail.com. Wofsy is also certified as a personal trainer and available to work individually with clients at The Hub.

Bone Builders  is an ongoing strength and balance class aimed at preventing or reducing osteoporosis, and meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 to 10 AM.   This class is primarily aimed at those age 55 and older and is open to all, men and women, with all levels of physical ability. New participants are welcome to join at any time.  The classes are free, although a small donation is suggested.

Zumba and Dance:  The Hub is also looking for a Zumba teacher and a dance instructor, and asks readers to contact TheAndoverHub@nullgmail.com if they are, or know of someone who might be, interested in teaching either.  Suggestions for other classes are welcome as well.