“I was a member of the Y years ago when my kids were little. I then rejoined about five years back. When I came back, I did water exercise classes and group exercise classes. I loved it, I felt great. When COVID hit and the Y closed, I did nothing and I gained weight back. My husband joined for the first time, and I came back to the Y again, around Christmas time. I started with the water classes first, and now take classes like LaBlast on Fridays. I also just tried Chair Yoga for the first time and I loved it. My routine also includes using the treadmill in the Wellness Center, and soon I’m going to have an orientation to learn about more of the machines.
At the Y, the mix of ages is really nice. I like to see all the different levels – like in Chair Yoga, you have some people who are sitting, some who are standing and holding onto the chair – you’re encouraged to do what you feel comfortable with. I don’t feel like people are watching you; there’s no judgment here. And everyone is very nice, they really are – the teachers, the front desk staff, everyone is very welcoming and not just the staff, but the members, too. I’ve made some great friends here.
I decided to join the Challenge because I wanted to lose more weight and get more fit. I figured if I sign up, I’m going to do it. I’ve tried new classes, I’ve pushed myself to come 5 days a week. It’s a fun challenge. I’ve enjoyed the off-site challenges like taking photos during my walk and posting them to the Facebook group, and also the YMCA Scavenger Hunt. That was great; I think I walked down every hallway in the building. I love being here. I really do.”