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Classes & Programs
Taking Control of Type 2 Diabetes in the New Year
February 21 | 10 - 11:30 PM | $20
This educational workshop helps participants understand prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes, including risk factors, prevention strategies, and lifestyle changes that may help delay or prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Topics include healthy habits, early intervention, and practical steps to support long-term wellness.
This session is ideal for individuals looking to improve their health, manage risk, or support a healthier new year.
Instructor: Melissa Ptak, RN, FNP
Melissa Ptak is a registered nurse with 26 years of experience, a family nurse practitioner, certified diabetes care and education specialist, and certified health coach, bringing expert guidance and practical insight to the workshop.
Click HERE to register.
New Year’s Reset: Take Control of Prediabetes
February 7 | 10 - 11:30 AM | $20
This educational workshop helps participants understand prediabetes, associated health risks, and lifestyle changes that may help prevent or reverse prediabetes and reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Learn practical, easy-to-follow strategies to support long-term health and wellness.
This class is open to all and ideal for anyone looking to make healthier choices in the new year.
Instructor: Melissa Ptak, RN, FNP
Melissa Ptak is a registered nurse with 26 years of experience, a family nurse practitioner, certified diabetes care and education specialist, and certified health coach, offering expert guidance and real-world insights.
Click HERE to register.
Self Defense Workshop
March 7 | 1–3 PM | Cane Creek Rec Center
This hands-on workshop introduces participants to the basic principles of self-defense, focusing on personal safety, situational awareness, and mental and physical preparedness. Instruction is conducted in a friendly, supportive, and self-paced environment, making it accessible for a wide range of participants. No prior experience, special physical ability, or flexibility is required.
Participants should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and be prepared to take an active role during class. Everyone is welcome.
Instructor: Sensei West has over 15 years of experience in martial arts. He began training under Sensei Green, earned his green belt, and continued his studies with Sensei Callahan and Sensei Williams, attaining the rank of 3rd Dan in Tracy Kenpo. He is currently completing his 4th Dan and has also trained extensively in Aikido under Sensei Clark. Sensei West continues advanced training under Master Harmon, founder of World Budoshin White Tiger Hapkido Federation. His work has included instruction affiliated with Tennessee Tech University as a P.E. credit course.
Moving for Better Balance – Beginner
This free beginner-friendly balance class is designed for senior adults and adults seeking to improve balance, stability, and confidence in movement. Classes focus on low-impact exercises that enhance strength, flexibility, coordination, mobility, and fall prevention, supporting independence and overall quality of life.
Participants will enjoy a supportive, welcoming environment that encourages safe movement and steady progress, helping them feel more confident with everyday activities.
Instructor: Mr. Cruz
Mr. Cruz is a retired physical therapist with nearly 40 years of experience, specializing in geriatrics. A proud U.S. Navy veteran and former Army Reservist, he has taught balance and fall-prevention classes for seniors for over five years and brings extensive clinical expertise to each session.
Click on a session to learn more or register:
March 16-May 7
May 11-July 2 (closed 5/25)
Moving for Better Balance – Intermediate
(Tuesday and Thursday 10:30am-11:30am)
This free intermediate-level balance class is designed for senior adults and active adults who want to further improve functional balance, coordination, and fall prevention skills. Participants will engage in progressive exercises that strengthen the sensory, motor, and cognitive systems essential for maintaining stability and safe movement.
Classes focus on improving balance, muscle strength, flexibility, mobility, and confidence through structured, easy-to-follow activities in a fun and supportive environment. By the end of the program, participants will feel steadier, stronger, and better prepared for daily activities.
Instructor: Mr. Cruz
Mr. Cruz is a retired physical therapist with nearly 40 years of experience, primarily in geriatrics. A U.S. Navy veteran and former Army Reservist, he has taught senior balance and fall-prevention classes for over five years and brings extensive professional knowledge to each session.
Click on a session to learn more or register:
January 13-March 12
March 17-May 7
May 12-July 2
Tai Chi (All Ages)
Tuesdays, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Click on a session to learn more or register:
February 3-24
March 3-24
March 31-April 21
April 28-May 19
Tai Chi is a gentle, low-impact exercise often called “meditation in motion.” This class combines slow, controlled movements with focused breathing to reduce stress, improve balance, flexibility, and overall well-being. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, Tai Chi offers physical and mental health benefits in a calm, supportive environment. This class is $32 per 4 week session.
Instructor: Teddy Spivey
Teddy Spivey has practiced martial arts since 2006 and holds a 3rd-degree black belt in Taekwondo and a 1st-degree black belt in Mu-Gen Karate-Do. He has extensive training in Chen Tai Chi and years of experience teaching Tai Chi and martial arts under multiple instructors.
Karate for Kids (Ages 6 - 12)
Tuesdays, 4:00 – 4:45 PM
Click on a session to learn more or register:
Karate is a fun and effective way for kids to build strength, confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills. This program teaches Mu-Gen Karate, a “no limits” martial art that blends Japanese, Okinawan, and Korean karate with techniques from Chinese, Thai, and Philippine martial arts. Students learn simple, practical self-defense techniques that emphasize personal strengths and safe physical fitness.
Participants must purchase a white or black karate uniform, available through Amazon or other online martial arts retailers. This class is $25 per 4 week session.
Instructor: Teddy Spivey
Teddy Spivey has trained in martial arts since 2006 and holds a 3rd-degree black belt in Taekwondo and a 1st-degree black belt in Mu-Gen Karate-Do. He has extensive experience teaching martial arts and Tai Chi and continues advanced training under multiple instructors.
Traditional Dance
First and Third Friday of Every Month
| 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Cookeville Traditional Dance meets on the first and third Friday each month. This class focuses on English Country and American Contra dancing, while adding in some traditional dances from other countries, such as Scotland. No experience or partner required. Fun for the whole family with instructor Mev McCurdy.
Cane Creek Recreation Center | $1 drop-in
Social Line Dancing
Mondays | 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
If you enjoy line dancing, come join the fun. Everyone is welcome. No experience necessary.
Cane Creek Recreation Center | $5 drop-in
Fitness Classes
Cookeville Leisure Services offers a variety of group fitness classes. Drop in for $3 per class (unless otherwise posted).
Monthly Schedule and Class Descriptions
School of Dance
August - May
The Cookeville Leisure Services School of Dance offers dance for young children (ages 3 through first grade) and technique classes for ages 7 through adult in the classic disciplines of ballet, jazz and modern dance. Tuition is based on 33 instructional weeks.
Cane Creek Recreation Center