Kakaako’s Still & Moving Center recently launched a new teen wellness program with “Teens Moving for Health,” a series of classes that combine physical activity with mental stimulation.

The program, which has been offered since late February, is designed to help 12- to 15-year-old kids build self-awareness about their bodies as they sample different types of exercise, said center director Renee Tillotson.

“We’re really good at creating safe spaces for people to open up and talk about things that are meaningful to them in a nonthreatening context with adults who understand the pressures they’re going through,” she said.

Instructors Linda Awana and May del Rosario take turns leading the classes, which incorporate elements of self-defense, Zen archery, Pilates and dance workouts. Time is also spent discussing healthy diet choices, how to deal with adversity at school or during extracurricular activities and encouraging participants to set goals and pursue leadership opportunities.

“We want to make it a group discussion and not just a lecture,” Tillotson said. “They’re at that age where they might not be willing to discuss some things with mom or dad. It’s really important to have trusted adults around with whom they can communicate and share with, who are people other than their parents.”

The current “Teens Moving for Health” sessions conclude with classes 4 to 5:15 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday at the Still & Moving Center, 1024 Queen St. Additional sessions are planned in the months ahead.

Each class is priced at $45 per three-week session; call 397-7678 or visit stillandmovingcenter.com to sign up.