AUBURN – Free Pilates workshops will be featured this month at the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA as part of its Wellness 101 series. The classes are open to anyone who has an interest in Pilates and those who have experience with it.

The workshops will be run by Tish Caldwell, YMCA wellness coordinator, who is a certified Pilates instructor.

The sessions will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon and 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25. While the classes are free, participants must register at the YMCA front desk by Tuesday, Jan. 24, as class sizes are limited.

Pilates is an efficient way of stabilizing and strengthening the core, arms and legs, while increasing flexibility. Each exercise can be customized, allowing anyone to participate regardless of fitness level.

“This class is for everyone. It’s ideal for the beginner and also allows the experienced Pilates student to take their workout to another level,” Caldwell said.

Caldwell, who has been at the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA since 1986, is a registered nurse, cardiac rehab nurse specialist, exercise specialist and is certified in Pilates, polarity therapy bodywork and integrated yoga. She coordinates the wellness programs at the YMCA. She has also continued to pursue higher levels of training in Pilates as she incorporates it into the YMCA wellness program.

For more information, stop by the YMCA at 62 Turner St., call 795-4095 or visit www.alymca.com.