Former athlete instructs free yoga for community members weekly at LBCC

Long Beach City College is actively transforming its campus into a sanctuary for wellness with its weekly free community yoga sessions, hosted every Wednesday from 12 p.m to 1 p.m. The program brings students, faculty, and local residents together at the Liberal Arts Campus inside Building Q, Room Q-117.

Led by veteran instructor Rick Anderson, he brings 15 years of professional teaching experience to the mat. Anderson originally launched his own yoga journey after his previous life caught up with him. 

“I was an athlete most of my life,” Anderson shared, explaining that his body went through a lot of wear and tear. Finding healing through practice, he improved his mindset and dedicated his life to teaching.

Anderson notes that his favorite part of leading the class is simply putting smiles on people’s faces and getting them to unwind, destress and focus on relaxation.

^{Long Beach City College yoga instructor Rick Anderson leads the group of participants through a series of floor stretches during a free yoga class on Oct. 7. LBCC offers free yoga classes every Wednesday in Q117 on the Liberal Arts Campus. (Jonathan Lopez)}

“They will get a flexible and strong body, a pleasant mindset, and better self-awareness,” Anderson said.

Local resident, Kelly Alvarado, discovered the class through mutual friends and flyers. She originally decided to give the sessions a try for her fitness, peace of mind, and health. 

She eagerly endorsed the class for anyone looking to try it out. “Yes, I encourage locals or students to attend LBCC free yoga for the experience,” Alvarado said.

For others, the program serves a highly practical role in their seasonal fitness routines.

Student Jason Freeman, a dedicated snowboarder of ten years, uses the weekly sessions specifically for preparing for his snowboarding season. 

Freeman originally heard about the program through the LBCC website and fellow students that have joined, highly crediting the leadership for making the space welcoming and praising the instructor who makes the environment approachable. 

“Yes, I recommend newcomers to try and participate in this program to elevate their peace of mind and body,” Freeman said.

The sessions are held every Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in room Q-117 in Building Q, and are free for everyone in the community. The perfect opportunity to breathe, stretch, and elevate your peace of mind.