YMCA

I have been a member of the YMCA since I moved back to Erie after attending college in Pittsburgh in 1995. The YMCA has so many great programs for individuals, as well as the whole family.

First, and foremost, the Y has four locations in our area. Eastside, Downtown, Glenwood and Edinboro. I have used 3 of the 4, with Edinboro being the one I have not used, but I still have that option.

Second, the Y offers daycare free of charge while you work out! This is a big plus, since I thought after I had children it will be hard to find the time to go and work out, but this is not the case. It's great to go workout and still have time to steam or get in the sauna, then get a shower, and not worry about the children.

Third, having choices of different times and different classes and equipment, which really helps to promote diversity in working out. One day you may want a spinning class, the next day you may want to take a kickboxing class. Some days you may of missed the 9:20 class at Glenwood, but can make the 10:00 class at the Eastside. Our bodies can hit plateaus doing the same workout day after day, and options help to avoid this situation, and keeps your body guessing.

Lastly, the Y provides swimming lessons, tumbling, and other classes geared to children, with the cost included in your annual membership. So if your looking for a change in yourself this year, take a moment and check out your local Y.

I have heard a lot of residents state that they don't go to certain other fitness centers in the area, because they feel they have to "get ready" to sweat, this is not the case at the Y's. Everyone is there to work out and feel great afterwords, and I have never felt like I should have done my hair before I go there. It's a very friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Living in Erie, these three locations are never far from where you live and have served me well and I will continue to brag what great options I have.

The Glenwood YMCA is due to go under a $2.5 to $3 million, 2 story expansion, which will make the facility larger to accommodate the surge of Erie residents who have already discovered the secret.