A Message from our CEO

So much has changed in the last six months! While we miss our bustling lobbies full of families hustling to their activities or friends meeting up for a cup of coffee, we know that our quieter-and socially distanced lobbies-are in the best interest of everyone right now.
However, I hope that you are continuing to stay active-it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself. Physical activity lowers your risk for disease, helps you get a good night’s sleep, puts you in a better mood and more.
If you haven’t returned to the Y, I wouldn’t be surprised to hear that it’s because you are concerned about your health and well-being. But I’m here to share that in spite of what you may be hearing or reading these days, fitness centers such as the YMCA are safer than you may think.

[@safishel]

I've been a member of the Y (West Chester & Brandywine) for over 35 years and sorely missed being able to "jump in". As a trained competitive swimmer into my 30's, I looked forward to my workouts in the pool. In addition, I have severe osteoarthritis, and with regard to my back, have had 3 surgeries. There are few facilities outside the Y's that offer olympic sized pools and I am grateful the Y facilities are open again, as I sorely needed to start getting back to the pool. The weight gain and back pain from sitting too much during this Pandemic was awful. I tried taking long walks, doing stretches at home, yet found it is not something I am able to do comfortably for more than a half hour without getting extreme back pain. Once the Y's opened again, especially the pools, I was thrilled. I researched the transmission likelihood in the pools, learning from CDC reports that there is no study to indicate transmission of the virus through pool water. Yes, every time I go to the facility it is no longer bustling, a definitely different feel. Yet I do see all the precautions being taken to minimize any transmission, and hope that people will consider returning to support, bolster and keep the Y's positive presence in our communities.

[@Pipsquacky]

I appreciate the effort and I’m happy to see that you are requiring a face covering even when exercising. However, because the virus is airborne, someone exercising in the background with a splatter shield on their face as opposed to a mask that covers their mouth and nose doesn’t feel like enough to me. I hope that you consider taking that rule a step further.

[@craiggcody5394]

I'll come back when I don't have to wear a mask. A cardio workout with a mask is too difficult. Outside and home workouts are better options.

[@erikabonnett9984]

Turn a fan on in the weight room, please! Face covering, working out and no air flow in there. If we're all wearing a mask then a fan shouldn't make a difference and actually help provide some relief in wearing the mask while there.