Whilst your wellbeing or fitness pursuits may be a solo affair, there’s one aspect that can be a determining factor when it comes to the consistency with which you move your body, and the longevity of your endeavours: finding a sense of community.
Community allows us to find a sense of belonging. It’s what can support us through some difficult moments — in or out of the gym or studio. Community can also add fun to our day and remind us of something essential: we’re all in this together.
We celebrate that there are people from all walks of life who use our gym. Diverse age groups, ethnicity, skills, income, education and fitness ability to name a few. The trainers at the YMCA take pride in their friendly and welcoming approach. We offer every member 2 complimentary personal training sessions when they join to set them off confidently on their fitness and wellbeing journey – these sessions can be followed up at any time with new programmes and check ins. We have staff on the gym floor all the time to support members and a great team of class instructors to motivate and guide members through the classes.
Never underestimate the impact fitness classes can have on your sense of community and belonging. Our members often find new workout partners or groups. These new relationships go on to become lasting friendships. With positive affirmations and genuine support, we all have the ability to make a difference.
Several YMCA classes end in group trips to grab coffee and have a chat. We have seen many friendships formed and even celebrated a recent engagement of a couple who met at the gym!
We host at least two socials a year; an outdoor summer party and the extremely popular Christmas party. Alongside raising funds for the YMCA, these events serve to break down barriers between fitness professionals and members. We also offer workshops, retreats and even holidays.
The YMCA is a charity. Any surplus funds that the health & wellbeing centre raises to support our charitable work – which focuses on young people at risk. This can be through our supported housing projects, youth & community work, our nurseries and of course, the gym itself.
Quote from one of our trainers James: “It’s great to be in a position where my job is to motivate others, but also to have a community who can motivate me back!”
Quote from one of our trainers Joe: “It’s an honour to be surrounded by individuals and a community that are on the path of becoming the strongest versions of themselves. This community allows me to make a bigger impact than I ever dreamed I could.”
