PROVIDENCE, RI (May 15, 2020) – Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) is streaming virtual fitness classes every weekday at 10 a.m. as a way to meet Rhode Islanders where they are during the COVID-19 pandemic. The classes, which are typically offered only to BCBSRI members at Your Blue Store locations, include balance and strength, core, strength and tone, stretch and relax, and cardio dance. They are led by Your Blue Store instructor Suann Polverari, ERYT, HCC.

“Our fitness classes are one of the key reasons our members visit one of our four Your Blue Store locations time and time again,” said Paul Ryan, BCBSRI director of retail strategy & operations. “We know how important being active is to our members’ overall health and well-being. During the pandemic, we know many of our members are staying home to protect their health, but it doesn’t mean they don’t want to exercise. By offering free fitness classes through Facebook Live, we are giving our members, and all Rhode Islanders, a chance to exercise and experience the sense of community our stores provide.”

A recent Health of America report from the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association found that regular physical activity can decrease the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The report, “The Benefits of Regular Exercise”, also found that regular exercise can slow the growth of behavioral health conditions, such as major depression. It can also lower healthcare costs.

Making fitness classes easily available to members is just one of the ways that BCBSRI is continuing to meet members where they are. BCBSRI regularly provides health- and fitness-related content through the Rhode Ahead member publication and website. In addition, BCBSRI has launched a new resource – “Keeping you well and well-informed” – to provide news and resources for members and employers with a focus on helping them navigate the changing landscape of work and health. BCBSRI also makes information available through its social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. 

BCBSRI is actively expanding virtual programming beyond fitness and exercise. Upcoming programming will focus on managing back pain and will include a nutritional lecture “Healthy Food, Healthy Mood.” For more information or to see the current virtual class schedule, please visit BCBSRI’s event page or the BCBSRI Facebook page.