For More in 2018 | Summit Area YMCA Invites Community to Jan. 6 Open House

 

Local YMCAs throughout NJ to Hold Statewide Open House on Jan. 6 to Encourage Community Healthy Living

It’s almost 2018 and the clock is ticking towards a whole new year of fresh beginnings—many of which involve resolutions for self-improvement and healthier living. To help keep personal goals on track, YMCAs across New Jersey will hold open house events on January 6th, including the Summit YMCA and Berkeley Heights YMCA, both branches of the Summit Area YMCA.

Moving the needle forward towards personal change can be difficult without effort and support. According to research by the University of Scranton, only 8% of people are able to achieve their New Year’s resolutions. To motivate individuals and families to reach their wellness goals, the Summit YMCA and Berkeley Heights YMCA is also waiving joining fees for those joining the Y on Open House day—with an added bonus of possibly getting a free three-month membership. 

Christy, a Summit YMCA member group exercise instructor attests to how forming connections at the Y has helped her lose weight and lead a healthier lifestyle.

“I moved to New Jersey from Florida and I didn't want to move here. I really liked my life back in Florida, and moving was stressful so I ended up stress eating and putting on a lot of weight.” said Christy. “I didn't know anybody here and I didn't want to leave the house, to drag myself to the gym. But then I made a friend and that really motivated to go to the Y. I've connected with more people here than I have at my kids' schools—because here, you're spending an hour or more with these people and you brought yourself to the gym, and you just respect that from each other. You can see how hard everyone's working and you respect it. The older you get, the harder it is, so you have to have some place that's going to keep you motivated, and have good people. If you have a gym friend, you will keep coming to the gym. You have to have that. It’s more fun!”

One of the many reasons that New Year resolutions fall flat by February is the lack of specificity and planning, as well as the understanding that change only lasts with time and consistency. At the Summit Area YMCA, individuals can plan their schedules and enjoy unlimited access to over 100 free group exercise classes a week including, Barre, Yoga, Les Mills Grit, Body Pump, Zumba and Body Combat, HIIT, Indoor Cycling, Hot Yoga, TRX, Primal Fitness, Aqua Exercise and more. While Personal Training services and programs are also available to help individuals on their wellness journey, members can also choose a more self-reliant route by using tools like ActiveTrax and Preva, which records individual progress and provides workout routines and suggestions based on personal goals.

“The Y is a place that provides a safe and welcoming environment for individuals and families to belong and to better themselves,” said Paul Kieltyka, CEO & President of the Summit Area YMCA. “Y staff and volunteers are passionate about helping folks in building endurance, losing weight, and strengthening your heart. When you join the Y, you’re committing to more than simply becoming healthier. Kids thrive here—learn and grow their potential through our programs, families spend quality time together, and everyone builds relationships and connections that help form and strengthen our great community.”

To get more out of every day, stop by your local Y on January 6th to see and feel the power of the Y! Visit www.theSAY.org/JANOH18

To join the Summit Area YMCA, visit www.thesay.org/join or contact:
Berkeley Heights YMCA
550 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
Maria Nolting
(908) 464-8373 ext. 2024 or email maria.nolting@thesay.org

Summit YMCA
67 Maple Street, Summit, NJ 07901
Pam Halpin
(908) 273-3330 ext. 1134 or email pam.halpin@thesay.org

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About the Summit Area YMCA
The Summit Area YMCA is one of the area’s leading 501(c)3 charitable organizations. Founded in 1886, the Summit Area YMCA has a history steeped in working side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income and background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Each year, we serve more than 10,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services in an area spanning the communities of Berkeley Heights, New Providence, Millburn, Springfield, Short Hills, Summit, Gillette, and Stirling. Through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners, we are able to offer financial assistance for our programs and services to those with demonstrated need. To strengthen your community and provide others with the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, make your tax-deductible donation today at www.theSAY.org/give.