Reviewed by: Sarah Morgan Freeman
6 ways the YMCA is creating community through fitness
Reading time: 4 minutes
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I’ve been wanting to start a fitness journey for a while, but I feel like I don’t have the time, money or knowledge.
Luckily, I recently visited Hoover YMCA and found it to be a great option for all budgets, ages and experience levels.
Keep reading to learn why the YMCA is more than your average gym.
1. Customize your fitness experience with EGYM
Every time I go to the gym, I feel intimidated and don’t know where to start.
That’s why the YMCA offers EGYM, a smart fitness technology used to customize your workouts based on your vitals.
Once you’re all set up, you’ll receive a smart wristband that automatically syncs with a mobile app.
Check out some of the awesome features:
- Automatic equipment set up that adjusts to the member
- Adjustment plan based on progress
- Offers online results analysis through the EGYM app
- Provides a goal- specific training plan
- Personalized settings + guided workout
EGYM is available at 5 YMCA of Greater Birmingham locations:
- Hoover
- Greystone
- Mountain Brook
- Shades Valley
- Trussville
To learn more about EGYM and how to get started, find a YMCA Birmingham location near you.
2. Y Small Group Training (YGT) creates community
YGT is a free-with-membership small group training program that boasts the energy of a traditional group exercise class, combined with the one-on-one attention of personal training.
These equipment-based workouts are adaptable for all fitness levels and are meant to connect members through commitment, consistency and fun.
Members commit to the entire month with the same group, day, time and YGT Coach, creating a sense of community and friendship among members.
YGT workout formats include:
- YGT: High energy workouts designed for ages 19 + up, adaptable for all fitness levels
- YGTeens: Designed for ages 13-15 + 16-18, workouts are formatted for youth fitness
- YGT Silver: Designed with the active ager in mind, workouts will focus on appropriate intensity levels
3. Free + professional child care
Finding time to get fit with children is a breeze at the YMCA.
Members have access to on-site child care for their kids ages 8 weeks to 12 years old while they work out.
Know your kiddos are safe and well taken care of with:
- Safe, clean environments for children to learn + thrive
- Age appropriate play spaces, toys and activities
- Caring staff vetted through the Y’s industry leading child safety protocols
- Friendship making skills
4. The Wellness Floor has a variety of equipment
When I visit a gym, it’s not long before I’m confused by all the equipment.
However, I quickly felt at home with guidance from the knowledgeable and passionate staff on the Wellness Floor.
The Wellness floor has a wide range of equipment for you to use, from cardio to strength training.
My personal favorite is the rower for a full body workout!
5. Wellness + fitness for any budget
YMCA of Greater Birmingham is committed to giving everyone the opportunity to grow and thrive regardless of their financial standing.
Thanks to the generous donors of the Y’s Annual Campaign, qualified applicants are approved for financial assistance based on need through a simple application process.
Begin the financial assistance process here.
6. YMCA has seven locations in the Greater Birmingham Area
With so many locations, It’s easy to take advantage of everything the YMCA offers, no matter what part of town you happen to be in when it’s time to work out.
Plus, members have access to all seven locations, regardless of which branch they join at.
I’ll see you at the Y!
Learn more about why the YMCA is fit for all + how to begin your journey.
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