“Sunny With a Chance Of Yoga!”
While the summer is heating up, the weather forecast is “Sunny with a chance of Yoga!” at The Gateway Family YMCA. In an effort to provide safe and socially distanced group exercise programs, the Y is providing more than 20 weekly Outdoor Group Fitness Programs in 3 locations in Elizabeth, Rahway and Union. These programs are strategically scheduled in the cooler morning or evening hours, and registration is required at tgfymca.org as space is limited.
“As a nonprofit community organization, our Y has worked to meet the needs of the community for over 120 years. The restrictions presented by the global pandemic have provided us with an opportunity to bring our programs outdoors, an out-of-the-box idea that isn’t new to us,” stated Krystal R. Canady, CEO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “While in the past, outdoor programs were typically offered as a special event, fundraiser or specialty option, today it’s become part of the new normal.”
Outdoor group exercise programs taught by YMCA instructors include popular sessions of classes like Yoga or Zumba, as well as low-impact options like Standing Chair Fitness or SilverSneakers, and higher-impact Just Pump it. Pilates and Circuit Training are also available. Outdoor group exercise programs are available for ages 12 and up, with a guardian required to remain on premises for those under 18. Health and safety requirements can be found at tgfymca.org/what-to-expect.
“We have worked together with our members and community to determine a good fit of program options, times and locations – utilizing our Elizabeth Branch, Rahway Branch and Wellness Center Branch in Union. As with anything planned outdoors, weather is always a concern. We have parameters in place to ensure notifications are sent through our mobile app, so that members receive them wherever they may be,” added Melynda A. Mileski, EVP/COO.
While The Gateway Family YMCA has provided 24-hour housing and social services throughout the global pandemic as well as child care and virtual programs, in person group fitness classes have been restricted from being offered indoors. Outdoor programs began in July and are scheduled to continue into the fall, with a monthly schedule available.
In addition to Outdoor Programs, the Y is offering live Virtual Programs through Your Virtual YMCA – an online platform developed by The Gateway Family YMCA and in-person wellness and adult lap swimming by appointment. 24-hour Housing and Social Services programs are available for individuals, families and veterans in Elizabeth and Plainfield, NJ. The YMCA offers full-time infant and preschool Child Care services at the Youth Development Branch in Elizabeth, and a Virtual WISE Adult day services program. “We are here for the community, and will adjust to fit the unique needs based on the current situation,” stated Colleen A. Clayton, Chief Membership and Development Officer. “While we remain positive that current conditions are temporary, we have a strong commitment to ensure we are providing opportunities for all.”
The Gateway Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, health and community service organization of caring staff and volunteers dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community and stands For Youth Development, For Healthy Living and For Social Responsibility. The Y impacts the community by providing quality services to people of all ages, races, faiths or incomes. The Y is a powerful association of men, women and children of all ages and from all walks of life joined together by a shared passion: to strengthen the foundations of community.
For more information about The Gateway Family YMCA, visit tgfymca.org or contact 908-355-9622. 
