A Google User
December 26, 2017 13:39
For the past 5 years working out has become a big part of my life. It's been even more important to me since having my daughter, and I'll credit her as being the main reason as to why I've become more passionate about my health. But in addition, I've realized it also gives me energy, clears my mind, de-stresses me, adds structure to my day, and it helps me feel confident and strong.
As a military wife, my family is constantly relocating. Which, gives me the distinct honor of learning about the different types of gyms available as I've had a membership with nearly every major Health Club (Planet Fitness, Anytime Fitness, Lifetime Fitness, Golds Gym, and most recently the YMCA). Of them, the YMCA has outshined the rest in terms of affordability, accessibility, child care, health club amenities, and the variety of classes offered. I can also attest to their personal trainers and staff. Not to mention all the philanthropic contributions to their local communities.
I joined the Livonia Y about 3 months ago when I moved to the area from out of state. Here's an honest review of the Livonia YMCA:
CONS:
Since joining, I've been to a multitude of other clubs in different cities and states. This particular Y is a little outdated in comparison to the others. Granted, it has been a pillar in the local community for decades and the other facilities were newer constructs. However, there are areas within the gym itself that truly could use improvements: such as the women's locker rooms, I've noticed there are missing ceiling panels in the locker room and especially in the area of the hot tub. A few missing panels I could overlook, but these concaved and there was debris scattered.
The equipment isn't state of the art, but it does have everything you need.
PROS:
The staff is incredible. They will make you feel as though you are truly a part of their fitness community.
The ammenties: personal training, tennis courts, gymnastics center, swim class, child care, a variety of classes that range from yoga and spin to silver sneakers, hot tub and sauna in respective locker rooms, 2 pools. The YMCA even offers monthly date nights so you can have a child free dinner. Not to mention they offer a reciprocity program that enables members to access a nationwide network of clubs.
Personal training: they're amazing. In the last 3 months I've lost 15lbs since I started working with a trainer. They offer both solo, small group and larger group sessions. You can also pay by session instead of purchasing a package. Ive been working one on one, its a little pricey (still fair) but the results are there.
Overall, I'll never leave the YMCA now that I'm a member - I like the flexibility of being able to choose which gym I frequent and the atmosphere it provides. They have a phenomenal policy for spouses of deployed military members and their community outreach is second to none. This is a place, that truly cares about its members and their local community.