Last updated 2 hours 28 minutes ago
We hear it everyday: "I learned to swim at the Y" or "My kids learned to swim at the Y." For over 120 years the Y has been teaching people of all ages and generations to swim and we are still going strong.
With more than 2,200 pools, we are the largest operator of swimming pools in the United States and the premier place for quality swimming lessons and overall fun. The Y is also a charity that cares about the overall well being of you and your family, and we want to be sure that you make your swimming experience fun, yet safe.
This May marks National Water Safety Month: the perfect time for you to get acquainted (or reacquainted) with all there is to know about water safety.
Our YMCAs offer swim lessons (for all ages), family swim, competitive swimming and diving teams, and many kinds of adaptive swim programs. We also hold safe swimming as a #1 priority, because we know how important it is.
According to a USA Swimming study, nine people drown each day in the U.S., and children from non-swimming households are eight times more likely to be at risk of drowning.
So being a safe swimmer is supreme!
A few tips to keep in mind as you venture out into your summer swimming festivities:
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Only swim when and where there is a lifeguard on duty; never swim alone.
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Adults should constantly and actively watch their children.
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Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
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Parents or guardians of young children should be within an arm’s reach.
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Children and adults should not engage in breath holding activities.
Visit your local YMCA today to get enrolled in a swim class because you can never have enough water safety tips.
Last updated 4 days ago
#1 - Because Friday is Bike to Work Day in DC. Last year 10,000 bikers pedaled to work in celebration of Bike to Work Day.
#2 - Can we say freebies? With over 70 Pit stops throughout DC, MD and VA, bikers can stop on their way to work for refreshments, t-shirts and even a chance to win raffle prizes.
#3 - Exercise and commute at the same time. Biking to work is a great way to get a good workout in during your commute to work. Like running, biking is a perfect solution to an impactful cardio workout. And in the morning too? Even better, as mornings are the best time to workout.
#4 - The weather will be perfect. We've had some up and down weather these past few weeks. On Friday, the weather should be nice out (predicted to be in the 80's). So catch a breeze and enjoy some sun first thing in the morning. Perfect way to start the day.
#5 - Help the environment and save a bit. Take a breather on the gas you would normally use in your travels to work, if you normally drive. Riding your bike would help the environment and even your pockets, because you can save a few dollars and go green all at once.
Last updated 16 days ago
May is National Meditation Month. Stop stressing and start meditating today. Here are some helpful tips, benefits and pointers.
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Last updated 23 days ago
Today marks the YMCA's Healthy Kids Day, our initiative to improve the health and well-beings of kids everywhere! 19,000 + Ys across the country are taking part in this Healthy Kids Day, at their local branches that have created programs, activities and all out fun for kids and their families.
Clowns, healthy snacks, face painting, self-esteem workshops, obstacle courses, live music, and much more are a few things you can expect from our branches collectively.
Grab your little one by the hand, print this handy schedule, and take them to visit one of these Healthy Kids Day events TODAY! Here's to your chance to get a jump on summer!
***BONUS: Meet our Guest Blogger, Jessica Reinhart. Jessica is a health and nutrition expert, specializing in wellness counseling and services (she also has some nifty - and tasty recipes to share). One of our favorite articles from Jessica is all about the kids. The first piece we will feature:"Introducing New Foods to your Kids," will be the perfect read for parents who want to guide their children into adopting healthy eating habits. This might help with all those healthy recipes you will pick up at HKD. Perfect timing, right? ***
We are so excited to feature Jessica and her tips to living healthier. Want to read more? Look forward to her guest feature monthly, on our Y Blog and visit her site here to learn more about her personal story.
Last updated 24 days ago
Happy National Volunteer Week everybody! This is the perfect time to recognize the people who do great things through service: our volunteers, who give their time and energy to serve others! Yesterday we spotlighted Kathy, today - it's Kevin's turn.
Read how Kevin Beverly, YMCA Board Chair gives us his thoughts on why volunteering at the Y matters:
"Organizationally it touches so many people in the community. The Y gives people a place to go that they don't feel out of place, whether they need financial assistance, or want to be a part of something....everyone is welcome at the Y. Having grown up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, I was always aware of the importance of having that 'family feel.'" Even though we are volunteering to help others - I find my volunteerism helps me as well. It's a fulfilling and humbling experience that everyone should take part in."
This is your chance to get involved today and help strengthen your community! Again, a huge thanks goes to all our YMCA volunteers and mentors!
