Getting in shape with the family is a great bonding activity! Exercising with your kids will help them learn healthy habits early, and you might even discover a new favorite workout.

If you’re looking for ways to get active with your child, your local YMCA is a great place to start. We’ve listed four types of activities you can enjoy together!

1. Pound & Pound for Kids

In our Pound group fitness class, you and your child can drum along to music and have a fun workout! You’ll burn fat, relieve stress, tone muscles, and improve your cardio. You and your kiddo will make new friends, too!

We also have a Pound for Kids class that lets children ages 6-12 take part in the drumming and cardio. Your child will explore movement, improve coordination, gain confidence, and express a little creativity.

2. Open Track & Gym

The Y track is a great place for walkers, joggers, runners, and parents with single-width strollers. Walking with your kiddo is a great way to get active while talking, too. And if your child is 10 or older, they can use the track after a Wellness Orientation.

Below the track is an open gym that’s perfect for playing basketball. Whether you practice layups with your kiddo or grab another family for a friendly pickup game, the gym lets you and your child exercise together.

3. Equipment & Weights

Working out on the cardio and strength machines, as well as lifting (light) weights, is a great way for your kiddos to get healthy by your side. Once children and teens meet with a wellness coach, they’ll be able to join you for your workouts.

After a Wellness Orientation:

• Kids age 11 and up can use the cardio machines.
• Kids age 14 and up can use the strength and cardio machines.
• Kids age 15 and up can use all machines, as well as free weights.

4. Pool & Aquatic Center

Want to go for a swim? Our pool has two swim lanes, a large family space, a vortex area, and a two-story water slide! You’ll also find a sauna and whirlpool in our Aquatic Center, which your child can use if they’re age 12 and up.

For parents with babies age 3 and under, we offer a Swim Starters class. Your little ones will explore the water while you learn how to supervise, prevent accidents, and plan for emergencies.

No matter what age your child may be, he or she can get active with you at the Y! Whether you’re trying to get in shape, lose weight, or learn a new workout, we have lots of activities that bring families together.

Have questions about our parent/child classes and facilities? You can contact us anytime.

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit our website here.

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Cardio is a fantastic form of exercise, but cardio alone is not the best way to lose fat and build lean muscle. If you’re looking to up your workout game, combining cardio with strength training will help you do just that.

Here are five reasons why you should try strength training, as well as how to incorporate this exercise into your workout routine.

Why should I strength train?

1. Lose body fat quickly.

As unfair as it may seem, women typically have more body fat than men. In fact, a healthy woman might have a body composition of 20 to 25% body fat, while a healthy man generally carries less than 15% body fat. 

Because women biologically start with more fat, it can be challenging for them to lose it. But regular strength training can help, since building muscle burns fat! And the more muscle mass you have, the more calories and fat you’ll burn, no matter where it’s stored. That means you don’t have to “spot treat” a “problem area” when you’re focused on building muscle all over your body.

2. Gain strength without the bulk.

It turns out that women really don’t have to worry about gaining too much bulk, since testosterone has to be present for that to happen — and women have a lot less testosterone than men do.

Because you’re more likely to lose inches with regular strength training, you can slim down and tone up in the areas you’re looking to improve. You can further prevent “bulk” (while still toning your body) by combining weights with cardio, and by limiting your time on each muscle group.

3. Boost your metabolism and calorie burn.

Another perk of strength training is that it speeds up your metabolism, the rate at which your body processes food for energy and burns calories. Your metabolism works constantly to give your body the energy it needs to produce oxygen, circulate blood, grow and repair cells, and more — even while you’re resting.

Women usually have a lower metabolism than men, but regular strength training can increase your resting metabolic rate (RMR) by up to 7%. The higher your RMR, the more calories your body burns throughout the day, even when you’re not working out. Another great way to keep up your metabolism is to drink ice water and green tea before and after you work out.

4. Decrease your chance of osteoporosis.

30 minutes of high-intensity resistance training, just two times a week, will help you increase your bone density and, in turn, reduce your chances of developing osteoporosis. And muscle-strengthening activities will preserve or increase your muscle mass, which is necessary for overall bone and joint health.

Thin, postmenopausal women have the highest risk of osteoporosis, but you can incorporate resistance training into your workout routine at any age to fight off the disease. In addition to lifting weights and other strength-focused workouts, getting enough calcium and vitamin D will also help you build up and protect your bones.

5. Reduce your risk of heart disease.

Many women think of cardio when they want to focus on heart-healthy workouts, but strength training is also valuable in fighting off cardiovascular disease. Because weightlifting and resistance training increases lean muscle mass, it helps your cardiovascular system direct pumped blood throughout your body, which relieves pressure on your arteries. 

With regular strength training, you can also lower your blood pressure, sleep better, and lower cholesterol — which are all great for heart health. Studies have even shown that weightlifting can lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

How should I strength train?

Twice a Week

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends resistance training at least twice a week. You should focus on a different muscle group each time you hit the weights or the mat, with at least two days of rest between strength-training workouts.

Try eight to 12 repetitions (reps) of an activity, or until you work your muscles to the point where it’s difficult to do another rep.

Using the Right Form

Make sure you’re using the correct form so you don’t injury yourself. A personal trainer can help you make sure you’re being safe and using the right technique.

If you’re new (or returning) to strength training, pick up a light weight that you can lift or push at least eight times before having to rest. Once it becomes easier to lift this, gradually increase your weights by about two to 10 percent.

With a Variety of Exercises!

Any weight-bearing exercises that use free weights, machines, or your body’s resistance are great options for strength training. You have plenty of options, including:

• Lifting weights or using kettlebells
• Using resistance bands
• Doing pull-ups, push-ups, crunches, planks, or squats
• Using weight machines
• Using battle ropes
• And more

Plus, your local YMCA has socially distanced group fitness classes that incorporate strength training: 

• Barre
• Body Extreme
• Body Pump
• Body Shop
• CX Worx
• Fit 4 Life 
• Grit
• Hi/Lo
• Kickboxing
• MX4
• Pilates
• PiYo
• Pound
• Senior Barre
• Silver Sneakers Muscle
• Tai Chi
• Tone
• Turbo Kick
• Yoga

Now that you know why (and how) you should try strength training, all that’s left to do is find an exercise you love!

If you’re not sure where to start, or if you’d like some guidance while beginning your strength training routine, talk to a personal trainer. They’ll help you create a safe, effective workout plan so you can shred fat, gain strength, and live a healthier life.

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

The post Strength Training for Women: Why (& How) You Should Do It appeared first on YMCA.

As we get older, staying active is essential for our mental and physical health. Exercising as a senior can provide plenty of benefits, such as:

• Higher metabolism (which naturally slows with age)
• Lower risk of conditions like diabetes and heart disease
• Healthy digestive and immune systems
• Better mobility and balance
• Reduced symptoms from depression and/or anxiety

A great way to get active while making friends and connecting with your community is by attending a group fitness class through your local gym (either online or socially distanced in person). If you’re looking for senior-friendly group fitness classes, we have a list of eight workouts you’ll love!

**Note: Please make sure your doctor clears you for physical activity before joining a group fitness class.**

1. Arthritis Foundation

Arthritis Foundation is an aquatics class involving gentle activities in warm water, with guidance from a trained instructor. Water workouts are wonderful if you have arthritis, because you can enjoy low-impact exercise without straining your joints and muscles. You might even find that Arthritis Foundation eases your pain and stiffness!

2. Chair Yoga

Looking for a relaxing way to start or end your day? A 30-minute chair yoga class might help you increase your range, mobility, and flexibility in a short amount of time. Your instructor will guide you through traditional yoga poses as you use a chair for seated and/or standing support. After a chair yoga class, you’ll be more likely to breathe easier, feel more relaxed, and sleep better!

3. Fit 4 Life

Fit 4 Life can help you keep your energy up while giving you the chance to connect with other seniors in your community. This class has plenty of benefits you might enjoy, such as: 

• Improving your range of motion 
• Increasing muscle strength
• Keeping you active and independent 
• Building your sense of community

4. Fountain of Youth

Join us in the shallow end of the pool for Fountain of Youth! This class features water exercises to get your body moving and your heart pumping. You’ll participate in activities focused on cardio and muscle toning, helping you feel young and strong for years to come.

5. Senior Barre

Senior Barre is another wonderful option for anyone 55 and older! This class incorporates resistance bands, hand weights, and other equipment for a full-body, low-impact workout. You can get stronger, improve stability, and gain flexibility as you work out with your Senior Barre community.

6. Silver Sneakers

Silver Sneakers is a senior-friendly group fitness class full of music, movement, and fun! You can adjust this workout to meet your needs with hand weights, exercise balls, chairs (for balance and seating), and more.

You can experience plenty of benefits with Silver Sneakers, including: 

• Better range of motion
• More muscle strength 
• Safe activity and exercise
• Independence

7. Silver Sneakers Muscle

Silver Sneakers Muscle is a 30- to 45-minute class that builds on the original Silver Sneakers program with sports-inspired exercises. You can increase your strength by focusing on different muscle groups in time blocks your instructor will guide you through. You may also use a chair for seated and/or standing support — and you can still get a great workout!

8. Zumba Gold

If you’re looking for a great calorie burn with lower-intensity exercises, Zumba Gold is perfect for you! This senior-friendly group fitness class modifies the original moves and choreography from Zumba so that anyone age 55+ can enjoy a safe, healthy workout. 

Zumba Gold’s benefits may include:

• Increasing your range of motion
• Improving balance coordination
• Building strength and flexibility
• Boosting confidence and energy

Staying active as you get older can help you fight disease, improve your balance, and feel better physically and mentally. And with these senior-friendly group fitness classes, you’ll actually have fun while exercising!

Whether you’re a group fitness regular looking for a new challenge, or you’re ready to dive into a regular workout rhythm, your clean, safe local gym is a great place to start.

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

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Keeping your mind healthy is just as important as eating well and exercising! When you focus on your mental health — or your emotional, psychological, and social well-being — you’ll be able to:

• Handle stress effectively
• Have meaningful relationships
• Give back to your community
• Be productive at home or work
• And more

But prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being can be tough, so we’ve provided seven ways you can start boosting your mental health today: 

1. Get at least seven hours of sleep each night.

Not getting enough rest can make anyone grumpy the next day. What’s worse, sleep deprivation over time is associated with high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart failure. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each night to ward off these conditions and help them focus and function every day.

Along with fueling your body, sleep will also boost your mental health and help you manage any anxiety, depression, or stress you’re dealing with. You can improve your sleep habits with a few tips:

• Keep the same sleep schedule every day, even on the weekends.
• Have a relaxing bedtime routine with prayer, reading, or journaling (see below).
• Stop using your phone and laptop at least 30 minutes before bed (see below).
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine intake in the hours before bedtime.

2. Schedule time for meditation or prayer.

Prayer and meditation are ways you can connect with God (or just be still and breathe deeply) before or after a long day. Saying a prayer or mindfully accepting the present moment not only has spiritual benefits; meditation can also improve your health and well-being in various ways, such as:

• Reduced heart rate and blood pressure
• Better stress management skills
• Improved memory and self-awareness
• Better communication with loved ones
• And more

So how can you make time for meditation or prayer in your daily life? Try looking for naturally quiet (and tech-free) moments in your day, like when you first wake up or right before you go to bed. Or, you can physically pencil prayer time into your calendar! By making space in your schedule for meditation, you’ll be more likely to actually follow through — and able to reap its physical, spiritual, and mental health benefits.

3. Unplug from technology whenever you can.

While social media and other forms of technology were designed to entertain and connect us, it’s had negative effects, too. For example, people who use social media often are three times more likely to feel isolated than their peers who don’t use as much social media. Many folks are also prone to social comparison when they go online and see others’ profiles or photos, which can trigger anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

Even if you don’t use social media much, there’s still such a thing as being too connected. More people are working from home than ever before, and while they don’t have to leave the house or commute to get things done, it’s difficult to separate work and life when they’re happening in the same space.

Whether you struggle with social media comparisons or burnout from too much work, unplugging from your devices at the end of the day will help you reconnect with your loved ones, boosting your mood and helping you set aside any stress you dealt with. Turning off non-emergency notifications from your phone or computer will also help stay focused on meditation or prayer, as well as sleep better (as we mentioned above).

4. Try to read and/or journal every day.

Whether you prefer the escape of fictional stories or the knowledge boost of nonfiction works, reading helps you improve a variety of skills: analytical thinking, memory, concentration, and more. It’s also a great way to destress after work, especially if you’ve been staring at a computer screen all day!

Plus, research has shown that reading the Bible or another spiritual text can lower your blood pressure and calm you. And paging through a self-help book can help people manage mood disorders and other mental health issues.

You’ll also become a better writer by reading often, which might make you want to write more in your everyday life. Journaling can help you process your thoughts, release emotions in a positive way, track your goals, and list what you’re thankful for. Writing about an upsetting experience can even reduce depression symptoms you may be coping with.

5. Spend time with people (and pets!) you love.

Fun fact: We’re 12 times more likely to feel joyful on days that we spend six to seven hours with loved ones. Even if that’s not always possible, calling or FaceTiming a friend or family member can be enough to boost your mood. And you’ll probably make their day when someone they love reaches out to them!

If you or your loved ones have pets, being around these furry friends can also relieve anxiety and make you smile! Petting animals lowers cortisol (a hormone that triggers stress ) and increases oxytocin, which promotes happiness and bonding. 

6. Get outside and move as much as possible.

Even if you’re not the most nature-loving person, a walk on a sunny day can do wonders for your mental health. Hiking, biking, or just spending your lunch break outside can boost your mood and energy levels. Just make sure you apply sunscreen before soaking up some Vitamin D (even if it’s cloudy).

Gardening and yardwork also count as nature time; plus, you’ll get some exercise in! Physical activity releases endorphins in your brain, which can improve self-esteem, reduce stress, and even help you manage pain. All of these physical and mental health boosts are great reasons to get outside and move!

7. Try a yoga class at your local gym (or online).

Yoga is an exercise form that pairs deep, calming breaths with gentle stretches, balancing, and core work. Whether your gym offers classes in person, online, or both, yoga is a great way to reduce stress while squeezing a workout into your lunch break or early-morning routine. Your instructor will guide you in deepening your breathing as you stretch and move, which will help you get more oxygen, lower your blood pressure, and reduce stress.

You’ll boost your physical and mental health through yoga by:

• Combating anxiety and depression
• Reducing inflammation, pain, and fatigue
• Increasing your strength and flexibility
• Improving heart health 
• And more

Making time for yourself matters! 

Praying or meditating, resting, spending time in nature…all of these things will help you feel refreshed and ready to be there for your loved ones and carry on with your day.

If you’re struggling to carve out some quiet, peaceful time, you’re not alone. But joining an in-person or virtual prayer group, mindfulness session, or yoga class may help you find rest and peace amid a busy life. Prioritizing your mental health is much easier when you’re surrounded by a supportive community!

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

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More than 50 million Americans struggle with seasonal allergies each year. And sniffing, sneezing, and watery eyes are tough enough to deal with, let alone adding an outdoor workout into the mix.

But you don’t have to let pollen, ragweed, or grass derail your exercise routine! Check out our five tips for safely working out with spring allergies.

1. Pay attention to the pollen count.

The pollen count refers to the daily number of pollen particles per cubic meter of air. The higher the pollen count is, the worse your allergies are likely to be that day. Experts consider a low pollen count to be between 0 and 2.4, while 9.7 to 12 is high.

You should check the pollen count each day, especially if you get severe nasal congestion and exercise-induced asthma during allergy season. You’ll find pollen count updates on AAAAI.org (The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology) and Pollen.com.

Over-the-counter antihistamines like Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec (or their generic forms) can help you manage your allergies for outdoor exercise. But when the pollen count is high, you may want to play it safe and choose an indoor workout.

2. Keep an eye on the weather.

Pollen travels through the air more easily on dry or windy days than on wet or cloudy days. If you have allergies, the best time to exercise outside is during a rain shower, or right after it stops raining. Just make sure to dress appropriately if you run in the rain!

You might also want to aim for working out in the evenings or after work, since you’ll keep your skin safe by staying out of the sun when it’s strongest (midday, between 10am and 4pm). Plus, you’ll avoid peak pollen count times (mornings, between 5am and 10am).

And whether you’re expecting sunshine or clouds during your workout time, wearing sunglasses can help you keep pollen out of your eyes while exercising. You’ll also reduce glare, eye strain, and the risk of UV damage when you wear shades.

3. Think about where you’re exercising.

Many people don’t realize this, but outdoor exercise in urban areas can actually set off your allergies more than in rural areas. Carbon dioxide levels are higher in cities, which makes ragweed grow faster and produce more pollen than in the countryside.

Pollen counts are also worse at higher elevations and, not surprisingly, in plant-rich parks and forests. So if you have spring allergies, running on country roads, in a suburban neighborhood, or on an indoor track may be better options for you.

If you choose to exercise outdoors, try to stay away from anyone who’s mowing the lawn. Cutting grass can stir up pollen and mold, so do what you can to steer clear of running lawn mowers. Even just crossing the street can help you avoid that much more pollen!

4. Choose a low-intensity workout.

When your spring allergies are acting up — or if the pollen count is high — it’s no time for sprinting or doing a HIIT routine outside. That’s because cardio and high-impact movement can increase inflammation and blood flow, making allergy and asthma symptoms worse.

Instead, opt for a lower-intensity workout like outdoor yoga, biking, or walking in the park. These exercises will allow you to get moving without pushing yourself too hard on a high-pollen (and sneeze-inducing) day.

5. Exercise indoors at the Y!

Another tip for working out with spring allergies: Go to the gym! Your local YMCA is a great place to exercise indoors with spread-out group fitness classes and safe, clean equipment.

A few ways to work out at the Y include:

• Running on the track
• Lifting weights
• Taking the family for a swim
• Attending a group exercise class
• Trying a senior fitness program
• And more!

Don’t let allergies keep you from enjoying your workouts!

By following these tips for working out with spring allergies, you can move toward your fitness goals without letting allergens ruin the fun (and benefits) of exercising.

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Trying to find time to exercise in between work, school, or other events? Running, lifting, or taking a fitness class during lunch may be a great option for you!

Not only will you be able to exercise during a natural break in your day; you’ll also return to work or running errands with even more energy than before. Here are four benefits of working out during lunch:

1. You won’t have to wake up early or exercise after work.

While it may seem easier to set an earlier alarm or wait until after quitting time to exercise, that could lead to exhaustion and other side effects over time, especially if you don’t get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. In fact, not getting enough rest can cause a higher likelihood of injury, lower immune system, and a greater chance of catching a cold.

By working out during lunch, you’re keeping your wake-up and working hours about the same. This way, you can sleep as much as you can and head home from the office as soon as you’ve finished for the day!

2. You’ll get a real break by stepping away from home or the office.

It’s tempting (and more convenient) to stay at home or the office during lunch, but this can make it hard to unplug from work. But leaving your job or errands behind you for an hour or so can really help you tackle Part 2 of the day with more energy and focus.

As tough as it is, try forgetting about your work or chores! You’ll be able to concentrate on your fitness goals much better if you’re not thinking about your to-do list at the same time. Focusing on your form, counting your reps, or mentally planning your running intensity will help you have a more mindful (and efficient) workout.

3. You can work out quickly in a less crowded gym.

Love exercising but hate fighting for a spot at the gym? Working out during lunch may be the answer you’ve been looking for! Data shows that gyms are the least crowded from 1 to 2pm during the workday, which means you probably won’t have to wait for equipment, a locker, or a shower to open up.

Along with getting in and out of the gym quickly, working out during lunch pushes you to be more efficient in your exercises. When you have to get back to the house or the office within a short amount of time, you can try high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or another tough-yet-quick workout.

4. You’ll have more energy during and after a lunchtime workout.

You’re strongest in the middle of the day, making lunch an ideal time to squeeze in a workout. Experts say this may be due to a higher body temperature in the afternoon, leading to warmer muscles. Whatever the case, you’ll be more alert and ready to move those muscles and sweat it out!

Once you’ve finished your midday workout, you may be surprised to find you have more energy than you did before you got to the gym! That’s because exercise activates the brain’s cortex, helping you refocus your mind on the work or errands you have left for the day.

By working out during lunch, you’ll save time, get more sleep, and boost your energy. Plus, you can squeeze in quick and effective workouts at the gym without fighting the crowd! We hope you love exercising during your lunch break and taking some much-deserved time away from your errands or work.

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit our website here.

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Whether you’re heading to college for the first time or returning after a summer at home, you’re probably excited to get back to campus life. But one thing that’s not so great about college is how limited your free time is.

Many students struggle to fit in exercise and healthy meals in the midst of studying, going to class, and socializing. But you can still stay fit in college by following these five tips:

1. Get 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

It’s not always easy to get enough rest in college, especially with studying and a heavy course load. But when you’re tired, you’re more likely to reach for sweet or salty snacks — and less likely to exercise. What’s more, you’ll deprive your body of leptin, the hormone that signals when you should stop eating. And you’ll produce too much ghrelin, which tells your body to start (or keep) eating.

To balance these hormones and rest up, get seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night. Try not to nap or sleep in too often, and avoid exercising or staring at screens right before bed. When you’re well-rested, you’ll be able to make better food and fitness choices!

2. Eat (and snack) smart.

We know your fresh food options may be limited in college dining halls. And even if you have plenty of healthy choices, many students don’t even eat one daily serving of produce. Fruits and veggies may not seem as appealing as pizza at first, but your body will thank you for avoiding a slice. (It’s okay to eat pizza and get dessert — just in moderation!)

Always eat breakfast, too, to avoid overeating or choosing junk food later in the day. You can also stock your dorm room with granola bars, almonds, and other healthy snacks. Snacking can help you lower cholesterol and avoid weight gain, so bring nutritious treats to class with you and snack every three to four hours.

3. Drink water all day, every day.

Falling asleep in class is no fun, and that’s easy to do when you’re dehydrated. That’s why it’s a great idea to bring a water bottle everywhere you go on campus to keep headaches and fatigue at bay. You can still drink coffee in the morning, but try having a full glass of water first to start your day with a hydrating beverage.

Along with drinking water throughout the day, you’ll also want to have a class between each alcoholic beverage. This will help you curb the “social calories” that can come with drinking, as well as limiting the effect alcohol will have on your body. (Another tip: If you know you’re going out for the night, don’t drink on an empty stomach! Enjoy a glass of water and some healthy carbs beforehand.)

4. Schedule time for exercise and stress relief.

Just as you plan your classes and outings with friends, you should schedule time to exercise. You can start by simply walking or biking to class, or joining an intramural team at your local community center. Or if you’d rather hit the gym on your own, try strength training twice a week and cardio for 2 ½ hours each week. Whether you play basketball, go for a run, or lift weights — you’ll sleep better and improve memory when you make time for regular exercise.

Working out is a great way to keep your stress levels in check, too. Penciling in “me” time every day or week will also help you manage cortisol, the hormone that makes you hungry and tells your body to store fat. Other ways to relieve stress include doing yoga, praying or meditating, and limiting your caffeine.

5. Get a young adult Y membership.

Whether you’re tired of the campus gym, or you just want to explore the community, your local YMCA is a great place for college students. You’ll have a space to make new friends off campus, and many Ys even offer a discounted rate for young adults.

With a young adult Y membership, you can enjoy:

• Free group classes and fitness equipment orientation
• Unlimited workout and weight equipment
• Free open swim, gym time, and community events
• Access to personal trainers and wellness coaches
• And more

It’s not always easy to make time for exercising and healthy eating, but it’s always worth it. By following these five tips, you’ll be well on your way to staying fit in college! 

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit our website here.

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