Adults / Seniors

The JCC offers classes, workshops and events for adults of all ages, on a variety of topics from Judaica to fitness to enrichment classes. We are committed to creating and promoting programs for intellectual enrichment, personal awareness, enhancement of new skills, creative expression, and development of social connections. See below for a list of current classes.

Hebrew and Judaica

Interested in more in-depth Jewish learning? We are proud to offer the Melton Adult Mini-School. The Melton Adult Mini-School is a project of Jerusalem's Hebrew University. See the Melton web page for details.

The explosion of diversity in contemporary Judaism is reflected in this fascinating study of Jewish denominations. The course offers extensive insights into the historical and ideological development of the major movements in Judaism, as well as the impact of such issues as gender, assimilation, Israel, and post-denominationalism on the movements and the Jewish people. For more information about this course, contact CJLL@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7413.
Instructor: TBA

No class: 3/29, 4/5, 5/17, 5/31

Have you always wanted to learn to read Hebrew? Join this 5-session course and learn to read Hebrew, whether this is your first or fifth try. The Read Hebrew America program is designed to give you the skills to make this effort a success. For more information, contact CJLL@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7413.
Instructor: TBA

This 5 week workshop introduces students to Bible study in the original Hebrew. Some of the skills focused on will be dictionary skills, the ability to translate biblical text, basic vocabulary acquisition, and improved reading ability. In anticipation of the holiday of Shavuot, we will be working with the book of Ruth. Hebrew reading required. For more information, contact CJLL@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7413.
Instructor: TBA

A course for anyone interested in learning the basics about Judaism. We’ll study the following topics: Jewish history, ethics, holidays and the calendar, life cycle events, and an overview of the major Jewish texts. All course materials are provided. No prior knowledge necessary. Everyone welcome. For more information, contact CJLL@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7413.
Instructor: Rabbi Joshua Fenton

Join Rabbi Joey Felsen of the Jewish Study Network as he guides students through the fundamental works of Maimonides, Luzzato, and other classic commentators. No Hebrew necessary. For more information, contact CJLL@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7413.
Instructor: Rabbi Joshua Fenton

Jewish Ethical Literature (Mussar), has been a guiding light to the Jewish people for centuries. Join us on Wednesdays as we explore right living, the ways in which study leads to practice, and the process of refining character. For more information, contact CJLL@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7413.
Instructor: Rabbi Joshua Fenton

Parshat Hashavua (Thursday Torah Study)

Bring a lunch and drop in for this weekly lunch-and-learn as we study the weekly Torah Portion. Through a close reading of the text and relevant Biblical commentaries, this class focuses on a greater understanding of the Biblical narrative and what it has to say to us today. For more information, contact CJLL@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7413.
Instructor: Rabbi Joshua Fenton

Senior Torah Study (Location: Chai House)

On the first three Tuesdays of each month, join Rabbi Joshua Fenton at Chai House for a spirited discussion of the weekly Torah portion and upcoming holidays. For more information, contact Chai House at 408.947.1818. Chai House is located at 814 Saint Elizabeth Drive, San Jose.
Instructor: Rabbi Joshua Fenton

Enrichment Classes

Improve your game! This is a 6-week class for advancing beginners and those with some experience playing. Materials fee of $7 payable to instructor at first class. For more information, email the instructor at SandyandBurt@aol.com or call 408.268.2721.
Instructor: Sandy Epstein

Fitness and Group Fitness

Fitness and Group Fitness classes are open to ages 13 and up, unless otherwise noted.

In addition to the classes listed here, the JCC offers more than 70 group fitness classes each week that are free to Center Members. Click here to view the current Group Fitness Schedule.

Self Defense (ages 18+)

Self defense should be empowering, effective, and help one gain confidence if ever a situation arises. Each month, we have a different focus of attack. So come and have fun while you learn practical techniques that any person will be able to use. For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.
Instructor: Julie Lin-Friss

Raising the Barre (ages 18+)

The workout that gives ballet dancers lean, strong bodies is now available to you! This class uses the ballet barre to stretch and tone muscles that are so frequently forgotten while improving balance, flexibility, and overall body alignment. Through basic isometric movement combinations, participants will work their lower body, including glutes, calves, hamstrings, and quads, along with upper body and core, giving your body the essential support for balance and protection for your spine. Within four short weeks, you?ll see the difference. Come join us and see what the barre can do for you! For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.

Want to try it before you sign up? Join us for a FREE class on Thursday, April 1st from 7:30-8:30pm, or Sunday, April 25th from 10:30-11:30am. You can also drop in and try any of our regularly scheduled class sessions. The April/May drop-in fee is $17 for Center Members, $27 for Social Members and non-members.
Instructor: Kristen Ryder

Raising the Barre: Summer Workshops (ages 18+)

See the "Raising the Barre" class description above. Join us for any or all of these drop-in classes. For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.

Instructor: Kristen Ryder

Cardiac Fitness (ages 13+)

Enhance your quality of life! Treat and/or prevent cardiac disease. In this exercise program, we work with your physician to maintain your cardiac health. Come for the Fitness for your Heart – Stay for the Social for your Soul! This program is ongoing, so you can start at any time. For more information and to register, contact Debbie Honeycutt at 408. 712.2443 or debbieh@svjcc.org or Stephanie Berg-Naillon at 408.357.7537 or stephanie@svjcc.org.
Instructor: Debbie Honeycutt

The Art of Conscious Breathing and Visualization (ages 13+)

Give yourself the gift of expanded awareness in 2010. Join us as we learn how to use conscious breathing with visualization and guided imagery to improve the quality of life. By using your own natural abilities you can discover that everything you seek is within you. Come learn the tools to unlock your dreams! This one-hour class is ongoing. For dates, times and prices, contact Deborah Rothschild, Group Fitness and Pilates Manager, at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.
Instructor: Stephanie Torres

Pilates Reformer

Pilates is a body conditioning system created over eighty years ago which teaches optimal trunk function to correct postural imbalance, increase flexibility, improve breathing, increase abdominal strength and stabilize the torso. The Pilates Reformer is the workhorse of all Pilates apparatus. The JCC offers individual and group training sessions which are ideal for anyone from the beginner to the advanced Pilates devotee. All sessions are made by reservation and are tailored to your schedule. For more information and to register, please contact Deborah Rothschild, Group Fitness & Pilates Manager at 408.357.7440 or deborahr@svjcc.org.

Athletic Conditioning Pilates on the Reformer

This 6-week course is designed to enhance your performance in every sport. The focus is on core strength, and helping sharpen your agility, boost strength and endurance, and prevent injury. Learn how to isolate muscles and increase movement efficiency. This class is great for golfers, tennis players, skiers, runners, cyclists and workout enthusiasts. For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.

Gentle Pilates Reformer

Looking for a less strenuous workout? Our Gentle Pilates Reformer training may be for you. Training on the reformer will help you to elongate & strengthen the muscles of the “core,” which improves joint mobility and elasticity. The reformer is low impact compared to other forms of exercise, which means it is not as severe on the joints as most workouts. It focuses on breathing and quality-controlled movements, not repetitions. It is a kinder and gentler way to exercise with numerous variations and modifications based on your own abilities. It combines the suppleness and flexibility you find in yoga with the strength building you find in weight training. For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.

Pilates for Fitness and Wellness

We offer a variety of private and group class formats to meet your fitness and wellness goals. Please contact Deborah Rothschild, Group Fitness & Pilates Manager at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440 for more information.

Pilates Bootcamp
Kick your metabolism into high gear with an intensive, energy-boosting circuit training workout. This killer workout combines muscle conditioning with traditional Pilates exercises to keep your heart pumping and your blood flowing.

Pilates for Cycling
Do those hills get you every time? They don’t have to get the best of you. Let Pilates help you increase your athletic performance for cycling. Train your core, open your shoulders and hips, and strengthen and lengthen those quads and hamstrings for maximum power on your bike.

Pilates for Golf & Racquet
Want to improve your swing? Strengthen your shoulders, toughen up your core, and build hip rotation so that you end up on the green and not in the bunker. This workout also has a lower body emphasis, great for tennis players looking to improve their game.

Pilates for Skiing and Snowboarding
Get ready to hit the slopes. This workout utilizes the jump board to help build strong leg and core muscles. The rebounding action combined with dynamic and explosive moves on the Reformer replicates the power and core stability you will need to make it down the hill.

Pilates for Teens
The Pilates Method of body conditioning is a fun and challenging workout. On the Pilates Reformer each student will learn exercises that develop core strength. Each set of reps will focus on the center of the body utilizing the principles of the Pilates method: center, concentration, control, precision, alignment, and breath. The principles develop the mind-body connection for physical peak performance and life achievement.

Enjoy the benefits of yoga with personalized lessons. For more information and to register, please contact Deborah Rothschild, Group Fitness & Pilates Manager at 408.357.7440 or deborahr@svjcc.org.

Take advantage of the opportunity to reach your fitness goals with the help of a personal trainer. You’ll obtain a personalized exercise program designed specifically for you with encouragement, motivation and accountability from one of our highly qualified certified personal trainers. You’ll receive specific attention to make sure you use proper form and technique. And you’ll get the most from your workout program so you will achieve the results you are working toward. We accommodate people of all fitness abilities including those with injuries and rehabilitation issues. Visit our Personal Training web page or call the Fitness Center at 408.357.7419 for more information. Please note, the prices listed here are for one-hour sessions. We also offer a half-hour option. For details, call 408.357.7419.

Tennis

Adults Beginner to 3.5 Clinics

This group training program helps players learn correct techniques, a full variety of shots, strokes, and proper footwork. For more information, contact KV Ganesh, Tennis Director, at kv@svjcc.org or 408.357.7495.
Instructors: Coach KV, Coach Arun

Winter

Spring

This drop-in clinic is a fun group activity featuring drills to give players an ultimate, high energy workout. Includes warm up, workout, and cool down phases. Drills & workouts are geared for players of all levels to get a great cardio experience while improving skills. For more information, contact KV Ganesh, Tennis Director, at kv@svjcc.org or 408.357.7495.

Private lessons with a JCC tennis coach will help you perform at your highest level. Some of the areas we specialize in are stroke correction, stroke development, mental toughness, point construction, strategy, on and off-court fitness, understanding an opponent's weaknesses and understanding your own potential. For more information, contact KV Ganesh, Tennis Director, at kv@svjcc.org or 408.357.7495.

Private tennis lesson prices for Center Members:

• $55/hr with coaches
• $530 (10-pack) with coaches
• $70/hr with tennis director
• $650 (10-pack) with tennis director

Private tennis lesson prices for Social Members and Non-Members:

• $66/hr with coaches
• $600 (10-pack) with coaches
• $84 with tennis director
• $750 (10-pack) with tennis director

Hone your skills by hitting/sparring with the pros at the JCC, instead of having a monologue with the ball machine. You can schedule a session anytime during normal business hours. For more information, contact KV Ganesh, Tennis Director, at kv@svjcc.org or 408.357.7495.

Ball machine rentals available from 8am to 5pm everyday for $15/hour. 10 hour package rates available for $100. Please contact Coach KV at kv@svjcc.org or 408.357.7495 for more information.

Aquatics, Lifeguarding, CPR/First Aid

Don’t let the name of this program keep you from attending. Whether you just like to swim, want to improve your stroke, or want to increase your workout, this program is for you. This program is ongoing and you can join at any time. We recommend that you be able to swim about 500 yards non-stop. No registration required. For more information, contact Jamie Winslow at jamiew@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.
Coaches: Sylvia Lam & Matt Linsky

Interested in attending Masters Swimming? This program will improve your endurance, technique and experience level, to raise your confidence and prepare you for Masters Swimming. Masters Fundamentals is a month-long class that meets the first 4 Tuesdays of every month. For more information, contact Jamie Winslow at jamiew@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.
Coaches: Mark Laugenour

Improve your technique, become a more efficient swimmer, and understand how your body works in the water. For more information, contact Jamie Winslow at jamiew@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.
Coaches: Mark Laugenour

Want to work out with your children in the pool? This program is for all levels and ages. We will work on technique and endurance at all levels. Family games and activities will also be a major part of our program. If you want to have fun in the pool as a family, then this is the program for you. No prerequisites. Registrations must be for at least one adult and one child For more information, contact Jamie Winslow, Aquatics Manager, at jamiew@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.

Need a little one-on-one attention to help you reach your aquatic goals? These lessons are set up at your convenience and can be held year round. Both Private and Semi-Private lessons progress at the student’s pace. Prices are based on the student’s membership status. To get started fill out an Interest Form, which can be found at the Service Desk or Aquatics Office. Contact the Aquatics Office at 408.357.7423 for more information.

Lifeguard Certification - Full Course (ages 15 to adult)

This American Red Cross course is designed to teach you life-saving skills and how to respond in an emergency. Registration deadline is 1 week prior to the course date. For more information, contact the Aquatics Department at aquatics@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.

Lifeguard Certification - Review Course (ages 15 to adult)

This American Red Cross review course is designed to teach you life-saving skills and how to respond in an emergency. Registration deadline is 1 week prior to the course date. Prerequisite: You must have current First Aid, Lifeguarding, and CPR/AED certifications or be within 1 year of their expiration date. For more information, contact the Aquatics Department at aquatics@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.

CPR/AED for Lifeguards & Healthcare Providers - Full Course (ages 15 to adult)

This American Red Cross course is designed to make you proficient in these lifesaving skills. Registration deadline is 1 week prior to the course date. For more information, contact the Aquatics Department at aquatics@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.

CPR/AED for Lifeguards & Healthcare Providers - Review Course (ages 15 to adult)

This American Red Cross review course is designed to make you proficient in these lifesaving skills. Registration deadline is 1 week prior to the course date. Prerequisite: You must have current CPR/AED Pro certification or be within 1 year of the expiration date. For more information, contact the Aquatics Department at aquatics@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.

This is a chance for you to meet with your own Aquatic Professional. We’ll start with some assessment and move right into tips and recommendations based on your personal goals. Please contact our Aquatics staff at 408.357.7423 to set up your Aquatic Orientation. This service is free for Center Members.

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Dance

Ballet-Stretch & Tone (ages 18+) - cancelled

The "Ballet-Stretch & Tone" class for adults that was scheduled for March and April, has been cancelled.

Ballroom 101 (ages 18+)

Learn 2 dances in 6 weeks. This class is perfect for new or beginning dancers. Participants will learn fun and easy patterns to put together in a routine for each dance. The routines give participants the confidence and tools needed to dance in social settings. As a comprehensive dance training program, Ballroom 101 provides all of the skills, knowledge, technique and experience needed for social partner dancing. It's easier than you think! No partner required to attend. For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.
Instructor: Kim Delli Santi

Ballroom 102 (ages 18+)

Learn 2 dances in 4 weeks. No partner required to attend. Prerequisite: Completion of Ballroom 101, or instructor permission. For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.
Instructor: Kim Delli Santi

Ballroom Workshop (ages 18+)

A one-session workshop. Details TBA, or contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.
Instructor: Kim Delli Santi

East Coast Swing Workshop (ages 18+)

Learn this popular dance in just one session. For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.
Instructor: Kim Delli Santi

Country Line Dancing (ages 18+)

Ready to get fit while dancing? Take our Country Line Dancing class. No partner required! We will teach the most popular line dances, along with a few of the oldies but goodies. Learn coordination, style and some fun variations as you dance to great Country Music and make new friends. Impress your friends at your next party or social outing! For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild at groupfitness@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.
Instructor: Kim Delli Santi and Kristen Ryder

*Attend both July classes (7/13 and 7/20) and receive a discount: The two classes together are $20 for Center Members, $40 for Social Members and non-members.

Parenting Classes

Raising Parents Open Forum

These parenting skills workshops are facilitated by local experts, with plenty of time for parents to learn from each other. Co-sponsored by the JCC and Jewish Family Services of Silicon Valley. The workshops are free, and you don’t have to be a JCC member to participate. For more information, contact Lizi Oceransky at lizio@jfssv.org or 408.357.7425.

Raising Parents sessions are held during the fall through spring.

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Parent-Child Classes

This class provides a fun morning playtime for toddlers and parents or other caregivers in a Jewish environment. We'll learn about Jewish holidays, sing, and create art as well as play with new friends. A grown-up partner is required to participate. For more information, contact David McCullough, Early Childhood Education Director, at david@svjcc.org or 408.357.7409.
Instructor: Hadassah Levinkron

Enjoy yoga with your family. Teacher Helga likes to incorporate humor, songs and silly games and loves to engage the children to create a fun class environment. For more information, contact Deborah Rothschild, Group Fitness Director, at deborahr@svjcc.org or 408.357.7440.
Instructor: Helga McHugh

Center Member price: 1 person $40, 2 family members $64, 4 family members $88, each additional family member $20. Social Member and Non-Member price: 1 person $80, 2 family members $104, 4 family members $128, each additional family member $60.

Want to work out with your children in the pool? This program is for all levels and ages. We will work on technique and endurance at all levels. Family games and activities will also be a major part of our program. If you want to have fun in the pool as a family, then this is the program for you. No prerequisites. Registrations must be for at least one adult and one child For more information, contact Jamie Winslow, Aquatics Manager, at jamiew@svjcc.org or 408.357.7423.

Parent and Me Tennis (parent with preschool or elementary school age child)

This program pairs you and your child with a JCC tennis instructor. This program introduces your child to tennis and helps parents improve their skills too. For more information, contact KV Ganesh, Tennis Director, at kv@svjcc.org or 408.357.7495.

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Parents Night Out and Parents Day Off

Parents Night Out (ages 6 weeks - 12 years)

Let the JCC’s PlayCare Department entertain your children while you enjoy a night out on the town. The third Wednesday of each month from 5:00pm to 9:00pm we’ll play games, do arts & crafts, eat pizza & drinks, and watch a Disney movie with popcorn! For more information, contact Kelly Gosk, PlayCare manager, at kellyg@svjcc.org or call PlayCare at 408.357.7422.
Instructor: Play Care Staff

Let the JCC's PlayCare Department entertain your children while you get things done! Games, arts & crafts, snacks & lunch, Disney movie and more fun! For more information, contact Kelly Gosk, PlayCare Manager, at kellyg@svjcc.org or call PlayCare at 408.357.7422.

Event Schedule:
9:00 to 10:30am – Free Play
10:30 to 11:00am – Snack
11:00 to 12:00pm – Playground
12:00 to 12:30pm - Arts & Crafts
12:30 to 1:00pm – Pizza & Drinks
1:00 to 2:00pm – Disney Movie

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Trips & Excursions

For information on upcoming trips and excursions, contact Fagie Rosen 408.357.7533.

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Seniors

Current Events

Older adults, come join us for a lively discussion and stimulating conversation about current news and articles. For more information, contact lisacg@svjcc.org or 408.357.7492.
Instructor: Senior Moderators

This is not a master point tournament and is a non-sanctioned game. For more information, contact lisacg@svjcc.org or 408.357.7492.
Bridge Master: Neil Newman

Improve your game! This is a 6-week class for advancing beginners and those with some experience playing. Materials fee of $7 payable to instructor at first class. For more information, email the instructor at SandyandBurt@aol.com or call 408.268.2721.
Instructor: Sandy Epstein

Learn basic lip reading techniques. Open to all adults, with and without hearing aids. For more information, email the instructor at hear@gizmology.com. Or contact Lisa Ceile at the JCC, lisacg@svjcc.org or 408.357.7492.
Instructor: Marcia Fariss, M.A., F-AAA.

Learn intermediate lip reading techniques. Open to all adults, with and without hearing aids. For more information, email the instructor at hear@gizmology.com. Or contact Lisa Ceile at the JCC, lisacg@svjcc.org or 408.357.7492.
Instructor: Marcia Fariss, M.A., F-AAA.

Selected works of art (architecture, painting, sculpture) are discussed in their cultural and historical context. Lecture and interactive discussion illustrated with color slides. No prior art history knowledge is required. Each week focuses on a stand-alone topic and is not dependent on prior sessions. For more information, contact Lisa Ceile at lisacg@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7492.
THIS IS A DROP-IN CLASS. NO NEED TO REGISTER.
Instructor: Jan Masters

Torah Lunches with the Rabbi

This class is for adults 55+. Bring a lunch and join Rabbi Fenton in study and discussion of the weekly Torah portion. This class will focus on modern meanings of our most ancient texts. All texts will be provided. For more information, contact CJLL@svjcc.org or call 408.357.7492.
Instructor: Rabbi Joshua Fenton

Widows/Widowers/Senior Singles Group

This group meets on the third or fourth Thursday of every month at 1:00pm in the JCC Auditorium unless otherwise specified. These meetings are open to any senior who is a widow, widower, single or divorced. Our goal is to provide diversified activities that enhance and enrich the time we spend together. Light refreshments are provided; feel free to bring something to share. For more information, call 408.253.7200.

Grandpals Shabbat - Dor L'Dor

Older adults, we need your wisdom and warmth to explore and impart our rich traditions to our preschool children. We will celebrate and discover together through examining Pirkei Avot  (Teachings of Our Fathers), holiday celebrations, and Shabbat. Please join us for storytelling, art, and song to connect the generations.
This CJLL program is presented in partnership with An Ethical Start®. For more information, please contact the Center for Jewish Life and Learning at cjll@svjcc.org or 408.357.7413.

Dates: Fridays 1/8, 1/22, 2/5, 2/19, 3/5, 3/19, 4/9, 4/23, 5/7.
Time: 9:30am-10:30am
Cost: FREE