I hope this message finds you and your families healthy and safe.
The recent changes in state rules has been at the forefront of recent messages – further, there are some updates to the rules that I wish to draw to your attention – see below. That said, we do have some other noteworthy items that we would like to bring to your attention.
We understand that many find doing cardio workouts wearing a mask can be a challenge. Beginning Monday, we are introducing a private cardio studio where a single member can exercise without a mask. We are also establishing an end-of-year exercise challenge, providing virtual workout planning and the start of new programs, including a Parkinson’s boxing class.
To serve you better and maximize Wellness utilization, we are asking that you advise the Front Desk if you depart your Wellness Center session with time remaining – in this way, waitlisted Members can gain access to full sessions. Further, there is no need to utilize a Wellness slot if you have already registered for a Group Exercise class and wish to do some post-class stretching.
For our seniors, we are happy to announce that the Greenwich Y will become a participant in the Renew Active program that allows for favorable terms to seniors who use United Healthcare as their benefit provider.
The above summary is detailed below.
Stay Healthy and Safe!
Pool Lane reservations
In my most recent COO message on the topic, I highlighted that we the new operating capacity is consistent with the occupancy level when we reopened in June. As such, we will be returning to a modified initial reopening model. I omitted one criteria that we followed in June (highlighted in red below amongst the criteria shared previously).
- Olympic Pool
- One swimmer per lane.
- The starting times will be staggered to maintain occupancy levels on deck
- 55-minute swim sessions that will start at the 0:00, 0:15, 0:30 and 0:45
- Reserving back-to-back sessions are no longer permitted.
- No parents or guardians permitted on the pool deck
- The bleachers will be raised and cones used to direct traffic will be returned.
- Swimmer needs to be at least 16 years of age to swim independently.
- Alumni Pool
- Continue to be used for lessons and classes
- Occupancy limits will be adjusted based upon specific program.
The 16 years of age was selected for a few reasons. It is the age where an individual can make a decision about their medical care without their parent or guardian. Since parents and guardians will not be permitted on the pool deck, this is an important criteria. Further, there is a comfort level that this age should have the appropriate maturity to participate independently. The Front Desk will be checking scans as part of the check-in process. We will not permit entry for an underage swimmer for an individual swim lane reservation. Our Aquatics athletes will be participating in their permissible, reduce-sized practices and will be permitted access as they will be monitored by their coach.
We have completed the rebuild of the Reservations system in time to permit the transition reservations being made (with less than an hour to spare). We are using a cost-effective system that does not have all the functionality of other more-costly applications. As such, our Reservation System requires Members abiding by the honor system to follow the rules. It is discouraging that we cannot rely on the honor system and have to manually intervene to eliminate premature reservations, back-to-back sessions. It is further disheartening that the repeat offenders will repeat their offense after being canceled. Unfortunately, all workarounds require manual intervention and taking time for staff who have other responsibilities.
With that as background and beginning on Monday, we are going to implement a manual override that will block access beyond the 48 hours and reopen the slots within the appropriate time frame. The new approach is more time consuming than the cancelation process that we will continue until the new process is in place.
I appreciate your support and hope that these adjustments are limited to the mid-January timeframe.
New in Wellness!
Private Cardio Room
Beginning December 7th, members can reserve use of the private cardio studio, located on the 2nd floor before the group fitness studios. Current equipment in the studio is a treadmill, a stages spin bike, and an erg. Reservation blocks are limited to 50 minutes and one member only, no exceptions. Members are responsible for cleaning all equipment.
To make a reservation, look for “Private Cardio Room” under “classes” in the YMCA App.
Wellness Challenge -21 Days to 2021
It takes 3 weeks to develop a new habit, so now is your chance to start off 2021 as strong as can be. Join our wellness team for a 21 day challenge as we lead up to the New Year. Beginning December 10th, check the “workouts” section of the YMCA app for that day’s challenge.
Personalized Virtual Monthly Wellness Plan
Whether you’ve hit a plateau, are stuck in a rut, or simply prefer to remain in the safety and comfort of your home, a Personalized Monthly Wellness Plan can help identify focus points and explore how the Y can support you along the way.
Click here for information, or inquire with our wellness department, wellness@gwymca.org or 203-869-1630, ext. 210
Indoor Rowing Program
One of the oldest Olympic sports, rowing provides an outstanding cross training opportunity for exercisers of all ages and ability. It is low impact and easy on the joints, yet demands a high degree of athleticism. This program is designed for competitive athletes needing training during the off-season, however it is also a superb intensive introduction for those new to the sport.
All sessions will be led by Stephanie Allgood, head coach for Row America’s Greenwich high school team.
All participants must have an active YMCA membership.”
When: Four Sessions, each 4 weeks. Participants can register for sessions individually or all together. Session 1 begins Nov. 30th.
How: Register online here
New Parkinson’s Boxing Class
Join our new instructor, Toni Mafes, at 9:00am on Wednesdays (Live at the YMCA or Virtual) for 75 minutes of balance, strengthening, and cardio for the Parkinson’s Community.
To serve you better…
To optimize usage for as many members as our capacity allows for, we kindly request the following from members:
- Kindly notify a wellness associate if complete with workout (and exiting the wellness center/base fitness) if more than 30 minutes remain in the wellness block. This allows entry for members on the wait list. Members on a wait list are encouraged to come to the YMCA at the start of the reservation block should cancellations occur.
- Please do not double book a Wellness Center reservation if you are reserved for a Group Fitness class. If you desire to stretch after a class, you may do so on the turf or in the gymnasium without an additional reservation.
Coming Soon…
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