With all the great challenges that are going on, I want to continue to focus on how to stay active and healthy through this continued COVID-19 pandemic.

It was great to have our first week with people in the pool and some outside classes. The world is slowly opening, and I am so ready. Talking to our members, I heard many being so happy that we have our pool open followed by disappointment that they didn’t do “better” exercising and eating healthy throughout the social distancing and closures. First, the past is the past, you can’t beat yourself up that you gained weight, lost muscle mass, lost flexibility and so on. It’s not going to help you move forward. Use it to get motivated to move. Use it to plan on eating healthier. As I hope we learned valuable lessons from this quarantine and social distancing, realize how much better you felt when you exercised regularly. 

Whether you are comfortable going out in public or not (and both choices are completely fine), there are still plenty of online/virtual classes for any fitness level throughout this community and of course a beautiful stroll in one of our gorgeous parks does wonders for your soul.

The JF Hurley YMCA is lucky to have an 8-lane lap pool and a separate family fun pool. You can call the Y to set your appointment for your hour slot (45 minutes in the water). Families can schedule time together too.

You can also check our JF Hurley YMCA Facebook page for other outdoor classes this upcoming week. Our first outdoor cycling class went great. 

The most important thing is that you keep (or start) moving. A strong and healthy body is the best way to fight any disease.

Hang in there and have patience, you will get back to your “pre COVID-19” shape.

Be kind, be mindful and respect each other.

Ester H. Marsh is health and fitness director of the JF Hurley Family YMCA.