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The Wellness Center at Bowdoin Street Health Center was built to offer free or low-cost programs to improve your health. We offer two well-equipped exercise rooms and a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen. We welcome community residents and Bowdoin Street patients alike.
By combining health education, physical activity and support, the Wellness Center follows an approach that’s proven to help people get healthier and stay healthier. Over time, this approach can even lower the risk for obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure—chronic diseases that can be costly to treat. Our programs are offered on-site, in a safe and trusted setting.
The Wellness Center and the staff at Bowdoin have changed my life. This place feels like my home, and everyone in it feels like my family.
Low-stress, minimal impact exercise, accompanied by deep breathing techniques. Tai Chi can improve balance, decrease your risk for falling and decrease stress/anxiety.
Mondays, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Thursdays, 11:15 am - 12:15 pm
Zumba
A moderate-high intensity aerobic fitness class, featuring movements inspired by Latin dance.
Slower-paced, light cardio with low-impact movements designed to enhance the mind/body/core connection. What you may see in class: Stationary exercises such as bicep curls, leg lifts, deadlifting, squats, Pilates, power yoga, kickbacks.
Cardio routines designed to burn calories and increase metabolic rate, and reduce blood pressure. What you may see in class: bicycles (no bike required!), jumping jacks, and burpees.
Integrating physical strengthening techniques with breathing and meditation to improve your health and well-being. All levels are welcome. Standard posture and chair yoga options are available at all classes.
Interactive cooking workshops designed to promote healthy eating and food preparation skills.
Oldways' "A Taste of African Heritage" Cooking Series - The African Heritage Diet is a way of eating based on the healthy food traditions of people with African roots. Learn about different spices, vegetables and grains to incorporate in your family meals.
General Nutrition Education - Learn the basics of healthy eating, from creating a balanced plate to making your favorite foods even more nutritious.
Baby’s First Foods - It's important to give your baby the right nutrients for healthy growth. Learn which foods are best for your baby at the different stages of development.
Shopping on a Budget - Learn budget-friendly tips and tricks to make healthy and delicious meals for you and your family.
Healthy Meal Prep Techniques - It's tempting to resort to fast food or frozen food when you need an easy meal. Learn about more nutritious options that are as easy to prepare as they are delicious.
Diabetes Prevention - Eating right when you have diabetes can mean the difference between developing dangerous complications and living a healthy life. Learn how your diet can help you keep your diabetes in control.
Specialty Classes - We offer a variety of other nutrition and cooking classes. Call for a complete list of upcoming programs.
Education and support to help you learn to manage obesity, diabetes and hypertension
Diabetes Group Medical Visits - Here's your chance to share your experiences with others who are managing diabetes, just like you. Hear new ideas from your peers in a supportive environment.
Diabetes Prevention Programming - From healthy eating and exercise to understanding your family tree, there's a lot to think about when it comes to your risk for diabetes. Learn from our experts about steps you can take to reduce your risks.
Hypertension Support - Hypertension, or abnormally high blood pressure, can be a major risk factor for heart disease or stroke. Learn techniques for controlling your blood pressure to help keep your health on the right track.
Obesity Prevention (including classes for kids and families) - Obesity has become an epidemic in the U.S. and can greatly increase your risk for many diseases. Come explore exciting ways to get active and stay healthy, through on-site fitness and cooking classes and local community partnerships.
Food Rx - Learn about the benefits of healthy eating and convenient ways you can access fresh, affordable foods.
Farmers’ Market - Contact Grantley Payne, Healthy Dorchester Coordinator, at 617-754-0026 or gpayne@bidmc.harvard.edu for more information
Time/Date: Thursdays, 1-5pm (June - October)
Location: Bowdoin Street Health Center parking lot
Fresh Truck - Contact Grantley Payne, Healthy Dorchester Coordinator, at 617-754-0026 or gpayne@bidmc.harvard.edu for more information
Time/Date: Tuesdays, 1-3pm
Location: Bowdoin Street Health Center parking lot
Train4Change Group Fitness Instructor Certification - In this unique workforce development program, you'll receive training to become a certified group fitness instructor.
Healthy Champions Community Gardening - Come explore the benefits of urban gardening--a great health and wellness activity. Children will join their peers and learn valuable skills by growing their own healthy food and becoming ambassadors of health in their communities.
Fitness in the City exercise programs for kids - Offered in partnership with Boston Children's Hospital, Fitness in the City provides children with valuable access to health coaching, physical activities and nutrition-based resources as they work toward a healthy weight and lifestyle. *Must be a Bowdoin Street Health Center patient. Contact Bayoan Garcia for additional information at (617) 754-0018
Indoor Tennis - Tennis anyone? Join us for a unique indoor tennis experience, led by our partners at Sportsmen's Tennis and Enrichment Center. Get ready for some great fun and competition. All skill levels are welcome.
Membership Rates
Bowdoin Street Health Center patients
Individual: $10 per year
Family: $20 per year for up to 4 people
Non-patients
Individual: $15 per year
Family: $25 per year for up to 4 people
