Hubby and I love to workout because we are firm believers that whole well-being in mind, body and spirit position us for everything great God has in store for us. When we became parents it became apparent why a family membership at YMCA is worth the investment. Our oldest was 9 months old when we enrolled her into our first parent and me swimming classes. At the time we had membership from another gym and when we look at our line number in the budget, the number makes sense to us to switch all of us to YMCA.
Why a family membership at YMCA is worth the investment stems from the simple fact that a family membership goes beyond the reasonable cost. We have been members for over a decade and I must say, we have not maximized all the perks as we should. I am sharing those perks with you to remind myself the endless benefits beyond finances of belonging to YMCA.
Swimming at the Y
All 3 of our girls have taken swimming classes every summer at the YMCA and we couldn’t have a better learning environment for them. The perks of why a family membership at YMCA is worth the investment are the fact that between swimming classes, you can see our whole family during open swim in the pool putting to practice what they have learned and it has helped with learning how to swim tremendously.
The YMCA offers swim lessons that are greatly discounted for members and as members you have the perks of enrolling earlier than non members which help with securing the spots that fit your family schedule. In fact, the month we signed up for swim lessons the difference in price completely compensated for our membership fee.
I promised our girls that when all of them are confident swimmers, I am signing myself up for swimming lessons. I am comfortable in water but never followed through with learning how to swim. I look forward to the time when all of us are swimming like a school of fish.
Workout Time at the YMCA
Once I felt ready to leave each of my girls when they were younger with caregivers, Hubby and I took advantage of the YMCA childcare so that we can both workout. It brings such a needed adult time and strengthen our marriage because we get the chance to do something together that we both love.
Our oldest daughter is now at the responsible age when she can now use the fitness room with us and it was such a bittersweet moment to see her in there but it reinforces to me why a family membership at YMCA is worth the investment. She went for a baby in my arms splishing and splashing in the YMCA pool to a track and field athlete serious about her craft and what it takes to prepare for each track meet.
When you join the Y, you can take a health assessment to help you in your fitness goals. You can sign up to meet with your health coach regularly too to access your progress. After your initial health assessment you can also sign up for a training session to help you figure out how to use the gym efficiently and stay on course with your fitness goals.
I remember the group exercise classes I used to take like TRX, cycling and Zumba and loving every moment of being pushed and motivated to give your 101% every time. I also enjoyed the wide array of selection when it comes to being relevant to what is needed for healthy living.
Amenities at the Y
Nestled in an undeveloped wooded area, our local YMCA offers a Family Outdoor Center that delights by its charming yet convenient, easy to get to atmosphere. With 47 acres, possibilities of family fun, relaxation and exploration are endless.
Whether you are looking to unwind in the sun by one of the three pools, learn to swim, or get competitive on one of the 2 tennis courts, basketball courts or gaga pits, there is something for the whole family.
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the family can embark out on the lake in paddle boats or improve golfing skills on the mini golf course. There are plenty of opportunities that allow you to participate in fun activities for kids of all ages through arts and crafts, tie dye, sports activities, water games and the ever popular obstacle course. Adults are not left out in the family fun activities with favorites like the 4th of July Great American Bash, S’more Nights, and a Summer Luau.
Great Summers Start At the YMCA
Our local YMCA provides a happy, healthy environment for children to learn and grow. At YMCA Summer Day Camp, participants gain a sense of accomplishment, build relationships and find their sense of belonging. It’s an opportunity for physical, social, emotional and cognitive learning experiences. For families, camp offers a peace of mind knowing that your child is in a safe and enriching place.
If your child is 14-15 years of age, they may be interested in the Counselor in Training program. In the CIT program, they will receive valuable job interviewing skills, child care training, leadership experience, team building and problem solving skills.
Supporting the Community through the Y
The YMCA is a place of possibility and promise for all and the reason why the YMCA focuses on strengthening communities. Every day the YMCA supports kids, adults, seniors and families with programs that protect, teach, connect, nourish and encourage. As a source and resource for affordable programs and services, financial assistance is provided to financially disadvantaged kids, adults and families, enabling participation in programs or services.
Chronic homelessness is a challenge faced by many families and adults, particularly in Bridgeport and New Haven. With a large team of social workers and an inventory of 415 apartments, the YMCA continues to serve as the largest provider of affordable and supportive housing in the state.
So, is a Y membership worth it?
For my family, the answer to this question is a definite “yes”. We have realized that the Y is much more than a gym, it’s a community. Since joining the YMCA, we are more active as a family and spending even more quality time together. My children have learned about healthy living and valuable life skills. Our family whole well-being is our priority and why a family membership at YMCA is worth the investment.
