Ames in Focus
Ames in Focus
Podcast Description
The City of Ames podcast that brings you closer to the people and programs that make our community thrive.
Get more information about things happening in Ames at www.CityofAmes.org
Ames in Focus is a City of Ames podcast.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers various local themes such as community services, city management, and animal welfare, with episodes like 'Furry Friends and Forever Homes' discussing pet adoption and 'City Budget: It's A Numbers Game' explaining the budgeting process for residents.

The City of Ames Podcast Network is a collection of shows designed to help residents better understand, connect with, and participate in life in Ames. Rather than following a single format, the network brings together a variety of conversations that blend civic information, behind-the-scenes insight, community education, and personality-driven storytelling. Each podcast takes a more approachable, conversational tone, going beyond basic announcements to explore why topics matter, who is involved, and how they impact everyday life in the community.
Get more information about things happening in Ames at www.CityofAmes.org
Wellness looks different for everyone. For some, it might mean lifting weights or cycling. For others, it could be yoga, dancing, tai chi, or simply finding a way to become a little more active.
In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Public Wellness Manager Claire Eagan to explore the wide variety of fitness and wellness opportunities available through Ames Parks and Recreation. With more than 50 fitness classes offered each week, there are options for different interests, experience levels, ages, and fitness goals.
They also discuss resources for those who prefer to work out on their own, including the Community Center weight and cardio rooms, personal training, fitness assessments, and InBody scans. Plus, Claire shares advice for anyone who wants to become more active but isn’t quite sure where to begin.
And there’s no better time to give something new a try. Free Drop-In Fitness Week runs through Saturday, Aug. 22, with classes available on a first-come, first-served basis. The next six-week fitness session begins Monday, Aug. 24.
In this episode:
- The variety of fitness and wellness programs offered through Ames Parks and Recreation
- How classes accommodate different experience and intensity levels
- Fitness opportunities for older adults, including Fitness for 50+ and SilverSneakers
- Weight and cardio room equipment at the Community Center
- Personal training, fitness assessments, and InBody scans
- How Free Drop-In Fitness Week works and what first-time participants should know
- Tips for getting started if exercise feels intimidating
- What’s ahead for wellness programming in Ames
To explore fitness schedules, programs, registration, and more, visit AmesParkRec.org.

Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
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