Glens Falls Business Journal photo
By Jill Nagy
The Glens Falls YMCA is gradually growing out of its COVID-induced funk. Attendance and participation in programs are both close to pre-pandemic levels, according to Health and Wellness Director Heather Hamell.
Pedalling for Parkinsons and a six-week “walk with ease” program for arthritis sufferers are popular and there are plans for a 16-week blood pressure program to begin in October.
In the wellness center, the machines and free weights are busy and the 1/16-mile indoor track attracts participants from people with walkers to runners, she said.
Healthy Start orients new users to the exercise machines. In the pool, people are swimming laps and taking part in Acquafit and other group programs.
The gym hosts Pickelball and adult basketball—at different hours.
Gynnastics programs are very popular with children, she noted, and older children are welcome in adult programs. For the youngest children, there is child care available. The YMCA also offers before- and after-school care and is just winding up a season of summer day camp.
Hamell has also seen more young women coming in to lift weights or just hang out and enjoy each other’s company. They are also the majority of participants in group exercise classes.
Programs are open to members and non-members alike, although non-members may have to pay a fee.
“We want to help everyone reach good health,” Hamell said.
The YMCA also aims to be “a great community place to be,” beginning with free coffee in the lobby. “We’ve grown quite a bit since the pandemic,” she noted.
As more members come back, the facility is looking at expanded hours and staying open seven days a week.
“We’re working on it,” Hamell said.
Hamell was born and raised in Glens Falls. She has been at the Y for two years, all of it as wellness director. She is a certified personal trainer and, she said, “I have always been interested in health and wellness and positive exercise.”