THE STRENGTH SERIES - MAY
2026 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN
The Annual Campaign, held each year in the first quarter, is the Y’s general appeal to the Community-At-Large. Primarily to support our philanthropic work, your financial support assists the Y in responding to the ongoing requests for help we receive daily. Your Membership Dues and Program Fees go toward covering the Y’s operating expenses, but your donations for the Campaign go toward helping your neighbors stay healthy and well. Connected by a shared vision, Staff at all levels work with one another to engage committed Volunteers, YMCA Members, and Donors to make a lasting impact on the communities served by our Y.
Dear Fitness Members,
We are also proud to recognize and honor those who have served our country as we approach Memorial Day. Their dedication and sacrifice remind us of the importance of service, community, and connection—values that are at the heart of the YMCA.
As we move toward the summer months, we look forward to continuing to provide programs that support your health, well-being, and sense of belonging.
2026 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN
ANNUAL CAMPAIGN This season, the Fitness Department is supporting the YMCA Annual Campaign with a series of special fitness events designed to raise awareness, strengthen community, and support programs that ensure the YMCA remains accessible to all. Participation in these events includes a suggested donation to the Annual Campaign.
Red, White & Blue 250 – GEC Fitness Series
Celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States with 250 minutes of fitness. This special pop-up series features five 50-minute classes held over several weeks and will not interrupt the regular GEC schedule.
Featured Classes:
• All You Can Dance – A multi-instructor dance mashup featuring belly dance, line dance, Broadway, Latin, and ballroom styles
• Self-Defense for Women - Simple strategies to help women protect themselves in real-life situations.
• Freedom Ride – Patriotic-themed cycle class celebrating American music.
• Salute to Spring – Yoga and singing bowl experience
• Weighted Vest Workout - Learn how to choose the right weighted vest for your body, what features to look for before purchasing, and how to use simple exercises like walking, squats, and lunges to maximize the return on your inVESTment.
Break-A-Thon with Master Cathy
Break a board, martial arts style.
Member Olympics
Members can test and improve their strength and endurance in YMCA-style challenges including bench press, squat, box jump, wall sit, and dead hang.
With Gratitude,
Ron, Grace, Lu and the Fitness Team
Member Spotlight: Paula
Paula, a Veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, brings a strong sense of discipline, dedication, and service to our YMCA community.
She has been participating in the Bone Up program—designed to build muscular and bone strength—since the fall of 2025 and has been working with fitness trainer Barry C. since January. Over the past few months, Paula has truly found her stride, demonstrating meaningful progress and growing confidence.
Her strength gains have been outstanding, doubling the weight she is able to manage on many of the Bone Up foundational exercises—an impressive achievement. Equally notable is her consistency. Paula regularly attends sessions and often comes in on her own to complete the Bone Up circuit, exemplifying the commitment that drives long-term success.
It has been wonderful to see Paula become more comfortable and confident in the fitness center, stepping outside her comfort zone and fully embracing the process. She approaches each session with focus and a willingness to improve, and her results reflect the effort she puts in.
Barry’s philosophy is to help people move today so they can enjoy their tomorrows—and Paula is a perfect example of that in action. She should be very proud of how far she has come—we certainly are.
As Paula prepares to attend an event celebrating the Military Women’s Memorial and its 50-year legacy of service, courage, and excellence, we proudly recognize and thank her for her service and for continuing to lead by example.
Spring Pop-Ups & Workshops – Try Something New!
We’re bringing fresh energy to the schedule this season with a variety of GEC Pop-Up Classes and Specialty Workshops designed to keep your workouts engaging, dynamic, and fun.
GEC Pop-Up Class Series:
- Zumba + LIFT™ (Evening Series)
Wednesdays: April 22, April 29, May 6, May 13
6:30–7:25pm, Aerobics Room with Tracey - Zumba + LIFT™ (Morning Series)
Thursdays: April 23, April 30, May 7, May 14
9:15–10:10am, Gym 1 with Jeannie - Zumba Toning (Pop-Up Series)
Fridays: May 15, May 22, May 29, June 5
9:15–10:10am, Gym 1 with Sophie
Line Dancing Workshops – Registration Required:
- Dates: May 1 and May 15
- Time: 6:30–7:30pm
Registration and a fee is required for Line Dancing Workshops. Visit our website or stop by reception to reserve your spot.
From high-energy cardio and strength-based classes to fun, social dance workshops, these limited-time offerings are a great way to try something new, challenge yourself, and connect with our YMCA community.
May 4: 14th Annual Roll Call for Veterans Event
May 6: Osteoporosis & Exercise Info Session
May 7: AOA Volunteer Open House & Lunch
May 8: A Taste of Wyckoff
May 15: Line Dancing Workshop
May 20: Patriot Club Lecture
May 29: Captain Jack: The Ultimate Billy Joel Tribute Band
Member Reminders – Thank You for Helping Keep Our Fitness Center Safe & Comfortable
Proper Footwear Required
Closed-toe athletic shoes are required for all fitness classes. Sandals, Crocs, and bare feet are not permitted.
Arrive Early
Arrive early for GEC classes and training appointments to ensure the best experience for everyone.
Stay Hydrated
As temperatures rise, remember to bring water and stay hydrated before, during, and after your workout.
Respect Shared Spaces
Help us maintain a clean and welcoming environment by wiping down equipment and returning items after use.
Honor Memorial Day
As we approach Memorial Day, we take time to remember and honor those who have served our country.
CONNECTION EXCHANGE
We want to hear from you!
This is a NEW! avenue for you to provide feedback, compliments, concerns, thoughts, etc. to the Upper Management Team so we can provide the very best care.
No thought or suggestion is too great or too small! Upper Management will respond to your suggestions and/or comments within 48 hours.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the Wyckoff Family YMCA!
