Category: fitness

Smart Start to the New Year

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

At the start of every year, many people make resolutions to improve their fitness and overall health. However, as the year progresses, the majority of these resolutions fall by the wayside. Why is it so hard to follow through with fitness plans? Here are 10 reasons why people typically don’t follow through with their New Year’s Resolution fitness plans:

  1. Unrealistic goals: It’s important to set achievable and measurable goals that are realistic for your fitness level.

  2. Lack of motivation: Lack of motivation can also derail progress. Finding an activity or workout routine that you enjoy can help keep you motivated.

  3. No accountability: Joining a fitness group or hiring a personal trainer can help keep you accountable.

  4. Overtraining or injury: It’s important to listen to your body and take rest days when needed.

  5. Boredom with routine: Mixing up your workouts or trying new activities can help keep things fresh and exciting.

  6. Time constraints: Finding ways to incorporate exercise into your daily routine

  7. Lack of support from family and friends: seeking support from like-minded individuals can help.

  8. Financial constraints: affordable options available such as outdoor activities or at-home workouts. The YMCA also offers financial assistance

  9. Poor nutrition: Eating a balanced diet and fueling your body properly can help improve fitness levels.

  10. No clear plan or guidance: Seeking guidance from a professional or researching workout plans can help set you on the right path toward achieving your fitness goals.

It is important to note that all of these reasons are valid and can be difficult to overcome alone. This is where the YMCA Smart Start program comes in.

This free program pairs Y members with a trained wellness coach who will work with them to set SMART goals and determine the best path for them. The program creates a stress-free environment where members can share openly with staff. Each thirty-minute appointment consists of a 1 on 1 conversation about the member, instructions on basic workouts or fitness equipment, and an introduction to the FREE Ask the Registered Dietitian program.

At the end of each session, staff will advise members on their suggested next step, which could include a referral to a group exercise class, a FREE personal training or MX4 interval training demo, referral to a chronic disease prevention or management program, a FREE Fitness 101 session, a referral to an aquatics-based program such as group fitness or swim lessons, or a FREE second or third Smart Start Appointment.

 

No matter the reason behind the decision to improve fitness and overall health, the YMCA Smart Start program will help identify the reasons and determine the best path. The program offers accountability, support, guidance, and the opportunity to work with a partner in the fitness and wellness journey. Studies show that only 30% of those who set out on a fitness or wellness journey alone achieve their goal. However, 70% of those who work with a partner achieve success. Let the YMCA Smart Start program be your partner in this journey.

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10 Benefits of Maintaining a Healthy Weight and How the YMCA can Help

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

Maintaining a healthy weight is important for both physical and mental well-being. It can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Here are ten benefits of maintaining a healthy weight, along with ways the YMCA can help you achieve your weight goals.

1. A Healthy Heart

Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. The YMCA offers various cardiovascular exercises such as swimming, cycling, and running to help improve your heart health.

2. Increased Energy Levels

Carrying excess weight can make you feel sluggish and tired. The YMCA provides group fitness classes, such as yoga, HIIT, and dance classes, to help boost your energy levels and improve your mood.

3. Better Sleep

Maintaining a healthy weight can help improve your sleep quality. The YMCA offers various relaxation classes such as meditation and mindfulness to help you sleep better.

4. Reduced Risk of Diabetes

You can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes when you maintain a healthy weight.  The YMCA offers diabetes prevention programs that teach healthy lifestyle habits to help prevent diabetes.

5. Stronger Bones and Joints

Staying in a healthy weight range can help reduce the risk of joint pain and improve bone density. The YMCA provides strength-training programs that help build muscle and improve bone health.

6. Improved Mental Health

 A healthy weight can also mean a healthy mind. Maintaining a healthy weight can help improve your mental health and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The YMCA offers various programs such as counseling and support groups to help improve mental health.

7. Increased Self-Esteem

Maintaining a healthy weight can boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. The YMCA offers various programs such as sports leagues and group fitness classes to help build self-confidence.

8. Reduced Risk of Cancer

 According. to the CDC, being overweight or obese can be linked to cancer.  Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as breast, colon, and prostate cancer. The YMCA offers cancer survivorship programs that provide support and guidance for those who have battled cancer.

9. Improved Immune System

Maintaining a healthy weight can help improve your immune system and reduce the risk of illness. The YMCA provides various programs such as flu shot clinics and health screenings to help boost your immune system.

10. Longer Life Expectancy

With so many reduced risks of illness, you can live a long life! Maintaining a healthy weight can help increase your life expectancy and improve your overall quality of life. The YMCA provides various programs and resources to help you maintain a healthy weight and live a longer, healthier life.

Maintaining a healthy weight is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental and emotional well-being. The YMCA offers various programs and resources to help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight. By taking advantage of these programs, individuals can improve their overall health and quality of life.

Wellness Challenge

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

Wellness Challenges are Good for You

Participating in exercise challenges can have a positive impact on mental health. It can help in reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Moreover, exercise challenges provide a sense of achievement and improve self-esteem. Social interaction and a support network are additional benefits of participating in exercise challenges that can contribute to overall well-being.

During the month of May, YMCA members can participate in a BINGO Wellness Challenge.

The BINGO squares can be completed by completing a variety of YMCA activities or practicing healthy habits such as;

How to Play:

  • After completing an activity, have you square initialed by a YMCA employee
  • Turn completed cards into the Member Service desk
  • Members can submit more than one card (submit as many as you’d like)

Are you ready to join the challenge? Download your BINGO card today! 

Full Disclaimer

WIN BIG

 

  • Complete 5 squares in a row to be entered to win a $10 Mud Hens gift card

 

  • Complete all 25 squares and be entered to win a FREE Month of Membership

 

  • All Entries will be entered for a chance to win a 1 Year Free Membership to Imagination Station, awarded to 1 Lucky YMCA Member
 
BINGO Card