Jumping Frog Pilates of Tenafly and Wannabee Chef of Cresskill have joined forces to introduce teens to their "whole me." 

An eight-week program of Pilates and cooking classes, Project Wellness will teach teens age 14-18 the importance of creating good habits with a supportive, girl/boy-power approach. Project Wellness is fortunate to have solidified participation from Whole Foods, who will provide a store tour to the group as well as guidance in healthy eating.  

"It’s hip to be green," says Jessica Spillane, owner of Jumping Frog Pilates and co-director of the Project Wellness program. "Generation G (Generosity) has learned the importance of keeping the world around them healthy. They understand recycling, energy conservation, volunteering, and demonstrate a strong desire to make the world a better place. We’re here to make sure that they complete the picture and know how to care for themselves as well as they care for their planet and community."

All participants will receive a starter kit consisting of special gifts from Whole Foods, Project Wellness T-shirt and a customized Project Wellness food and exercise journal.  

The program is designed for 14-18 year olds and will consist of 10 Pilates sessions at Jumping Frog Pilates and four sessions with special themes to teach well-rounded fitness. Yoga, boxing, dance and boot camps will also be featured.  

In addition to the exercise regimen, Wannabee Chef will be hosting seven sessions of teen-specific cooking classes, to teach proper, but realistic food choices in addition to basic cooking skills. "Fourteen years and older is the age of independence," says Rama Ginde, chef and owner of Wannabee Chef. "Kids start breaking away from the family meal to eat with friends. It’s most critical at this point that they have the knowledge to make the right food choices and cooking skills to keep them healthy through high school, college and beyond."

Project Wellness’s spring session opens Monday, March 29 at Wannabee Chef, 18 Union Ave., Cresskill, where participants will be given their orientation packet and schedule. The program concludes Wednesday, May 26 with their final session at Jumping Frog Pilates, 145 Piermont Road, Tenafly.   

For more information, visit projectwellnessnj.com or call Jumping Frog at (201) 266-6989 or Wannabee Chef at (201) 502-0335.