Members enjoy the CLC YMCA’s new raised track.
The Central Lincoln County YMCA in Damariscotta opened its new and expanded Healthy Living Center, new raised track, and updated offices this past Monday. Group exercise offerings have expanded to more than 60 classes, as well as to the personal training program. In addition, offices are now open for the CEO, the Healthy Living director, FARMS at the Y, the community and youth outreach coordinator, and the membership and marketing director.
The Healthy Living Center now features new free weights and equipment as well as new Cybex weight machines. Also, a new SYNRG 360 Functional Training System will soon be a new addition to the Healthy Living Center. Life Fitness pioneered the SYNRGY360 concept to create transformational and inspiring fitness experiences for a diverse audience of exercisers. Exercises include rope pull, slam ball, stall bars, pull-up bar, boxing, dips, power bands, kettlebells, step platform, and more. Instructor-led group classes on this new equipment will be offered starting in May.
In addition, the Y’s personal training program is being expanded, where trainers assist individuals with improved strength, balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance; injury recovery and prevention; physical limitations or concerns; sport-focused conditioning; and weight loss. Nutrition counseling is also offered in either one-time support for general health and wellness guidance personalized to one’s specific goals, or a 6-week package where dieticians will provide ongoing motivation and support to help individuals make permanent and lifestyle-appropriate dietary changes with their guidance.
The Y has increased its selection of group exercise class to more than 60. New classes such as Barbell Blast, Barre, BOSU, Fit to Drum, Yoga, and Tabata have been added to the current listings, which include including cardio tennis, cycling, HIIT, TRX, Total Body Challenge, Pilates, and others.
Child Watch returns as of Monday, April 30. One can let the Y’s caring staff watch one’s children while one enjoys free time at the Y to work out, take a class, sit and relax in the new lounge, or get caught up on emails or work in comfort. Available in 2-hour increments weekday mornings 8-11:30 a.m., Tuesday and Thursday evenings 4-7:30 p.m., and Saturday mornings 7-10 a.m. The cost is free for family members, $5 per hour, or a $45 punch card for 10 visits for members and $10 per hour for nonmembers.
FARMS at the Y will continue to foster and expand its work to include teaching all schoolchildren in Lincoln County and having an even greater impact on those in the community who struggle with food insecurity. Karen Kleinkopf, co-founder and youth program director, and educator Leslie Wicks have joined the Y’s Healthy Living staff and will continue to help all people in the community to adopt a lifestyle that focuses on eating fresh, local, whole foods. Fun, informative programs focusing on healthy eating will be offered for all age groups.
Spectrum Generations has been serving central and Midcoast Maine’s older adults since 1972 and is a fixture in Lincoln County, providing caregiver support, education, and respite; Medicare counseling; and classes, workshops, social clubs, and weekly lunch-and-learn dining opportunities featuring local speakers focusing on a variety of topics. Offerings in the Y’s Spring Guide include Wednesday Lunch & Learn, Medicare 101: Medicare Made Easy, Family Caregiver Support Group, Local Advisory Council, and SAGE.
The Y’s new Volunteer Ambassador Program is also looking for new participants. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and help one’s community. Regardless of one’s special talents, interests, and schedule, one can help change someone’s life. Share the Y’s commitment for the well-being of youth and the community by becoming a Y volunteer. Find the volunteer form at clcymca.org or pick one up at the Y. Once filled out, or for more information, contact Karen-Ann Hagar at khagar@clcymca.org.
The grand reopening and annual meeting will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 29. The event is free and open to the public; however, registering with the Y front desk is appreciated. Stop by or call 563-9622 before Monday, April 23. The Y looks forward to sharing this special event with the community.
The CLC YMCA is a key collaborative leader improving the quality of life for all by being the champion for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. For information about any of the Y’s programs and events, go to clcymca.org.
