Clare Swartz

When Clare Swartz first considered stepping into a group exercise class at the El Dorado YMCA, she almost didn’t walk through the door.

Starting something new felt overwhelming. Clare described feeling unsure if she belonged there at all, saying “I was so intimidated and embarrassed when I first started, and I almost didn’t go. But a friend encouraged me to try a class, and it didn’t take long at all to feel more comfortable and confident.”

That first class was a turning point. The Y became the place where she could safely push through barriers and discover what she was capable of.

Claire found her rhythm in classes like Muscle Pump, Body Design and Cycle Circuit, while also learning the importance of recovery through Stretch and Roll and Yoga. That confidence extended far beyond fitness.

“It’s such a friendly and encouraging group of people. The Y has become a place I truly look forward to coming to,” she said. "I really appreciate that my kids enjoy hanging out at the Y, and that they can join me in classes when they want to. Their interest in working out has really grown.”