Essex County Branch Brook Park is a powerful catalyst for physical activity, well-being, and community engagement. In our work, we see the link between active behavior and positive impacts on health outcomes. The free programming that we offer to our community not only embodies our passion for education on health equity, but also provides tangible solutions to enhance the physical and mental health of all our community members.
We invite everyone to join us in regular low-to-moderate physical activity through our Discovering Wellness with Branch Brook Park Alliance community health programming: Yoga, Zumba, Soul Line Dancing, Walks, Hikes, Running, Gardening and more. If there is something you are interested in, but do not see, please contact us.
Friends Like You Help us keep programs like these free for all to enjoy.
Our Proud Sponsors These programs would not be possible without our sponsors. THANK YOU Branch Brook Park Alliance thanks our premier sponsors of Discovering Wellness.
Soul Line Dancing
In partnership with J-Boogie from Beyond the Boogie & Step-4-Step, Branch Brook Park Alliance proudly offers an invigorating and health-enhancing experience to the community through soul line dancing. This dynamic form of exercise, ranging from moderate to vigorous intensity, provides a comprehensive cardiovascular workout. It not only uplifts your physical well-being but also fosters a sense of community and joy among participants. We warmly invite you to join this rhythmic journey towards better health and spirited connection in the serene ambiance of the park.
Yoga in the Park
In partnership with Lotus Yoga in the City of Newark, our vision is to provide physical, mental and emotional health opportunities that uplift the lives of our community. Join your friends and neighbors in a weekly physical and spiritual awakening.
Pickleball 101: Free Beginner Clinics
BEGINNER: LEVEL + ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED (FREE) If you've never played pickleball before, start out on the right foot with our pickleball beginner clinic. Designed for new players to grasp pickleball fundamentals confidently, students will learn the proper grip, practice the technique for forehand and backhand groundstrokes, volley, and learn to serve. Players will learn the rules of the game, and finish the class with point play. Instructor: Tony Villanueva, a member of the Forest Hill Community Association (FHCA)
Taekwondo in the Park
In partnership with Claire Jones with Guardian Arts TaeKwonDo. Build strength, focus, and confidence in the fresh air of Essex County Branch Brook Park. This dynamic Taekwondo session blends traditional martial arts techniques with a modern approach to wellness. Open to all skill levels, participants will engage in stretching, forms, and self-discipline practices that promote physical fitness and mental clarity. Come ready to move, learn, and empower your body and mind—one kick at a time.
Zumba in the Park
In partnership with Crystal Gaynor we bring you Zumba. Besides losing weight, Zumba can help lower your risk of heart disease, reduce your blood pressure and bad cholesterol, and boost your good cholesterol.
Branch Brook Park "parkrun" is a FREE weekly 5k event for participants of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 9:00am in Branch Brook Park, Newark, Essex County NJ 07104. This wellness activation is sponsored and hosted by parkRun, click the button to learn more.
This is an opportunity for all, regardless of age or gender, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. We want to encourage people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!
The gardening experience begins with a "packet of wonder," that seeds and trees alike, will produce a charming festival of color. Gardening can be considered both as an art concerned with arranging living things harmoniously in their surroundings, and as a science, encompassing the principles and techniques of cultivation. Did you know that it's been proven that mild gardening burns up to 300 calories? Just think of all those calories you burn when planting an entire garden bed! Let's get ready to dig! Visit the community calendar by clicking the link above to register.