Program designed to get Lorain County moving highlights Lorain businesses while offering fitness options

LORAIN — United We Sweat is on tour this summer, bringing an array of workouts to residents at businesses throughout the city. While the United We Sweat program isn't new, this approach definitely is. "United We Sweat is an ongoing program, started in 2011," said Ryan Aroney, president and CEO of the United Way of Greater Lorain County. "Our vision was to eliminate cost as a barrier for people who want to exercise. We also wanted to offer outreach in communities that don't have a gym." United We Sweat is co-led by United Way of Greater Lorain County and Lorain County Public Health. Kim Haney, of SunDog Yoga and Wellness, pitched the idea of different exercise classes at different local businesses in Lorain, and United We Sweat "ran" with it, according to Aroney. "We thought it was a fun idea and a cool way to highlight some small local businesses," he said. "And we knew it would fit the vibe of what we were already doing." Picking the exercise to match the location was as easy as downward dog. "The group had this idea for BUTI Yoga," Aroney said. "It's a cross between Zumba and yoga and belly dancing, so we knew it had to be a special place, a funky, hybrid, cool place." Enter Union Town Provisions. Line dancing at Broadway Mary's? Yoga at the Marina? The tour seems to be working. What started out as five classes has grown to seven, with the possibility of more to come. "We like to test things first to see how they go," Aroney said. "One way or another, you're likely to see things like this continue." The first two events — yoga at Oasis Marina Port and Pilates at Juice Me Juice Bar — were well-attended, Aroney said. "So far, so good, and we have the opportunity to build some momentum here," he said. "In the past, we've had tai chi and yoga at Lakeview Park. We want to focus on communities, like Lorain and southern Lorain County that do not have gyms." The great thing about these classes is no experience is necessary. Maybe you haven't gone line dancing since Billy Ray Cyrus had an "Achy Breaky Heart." That's OK. Maybe you're interested in BUTI Yoga, but have never tried it before. Well, this class is for you. "We hope people stay engaged beyond the month of June," Aroney said. "The classes are free and open to the public." In addition to the Lorain tour, United We Sweat offers a variety of classes throughout the county. Visit the unitedwesweat.org website to search classes. There is even child care. In addition to United Way and Lorain County Public Health, United We Sweat partners include Cleveland Clinic, Lorain County Community College, Lorain County Metro Parks and UH Avon Health Center. Contact Christina Jolliffe at ctnews@chroniclet.com.