Toy Mitchell

I have been a member since January 2020. At the time, I decided my best approach to beginning an exercise routine was to enroll in West YMCA classes that would cover the widest possible exercise gambit. I have been regularly attending Yoga with Leslie and Saovany, CardioCraze and Muscle Pump and Bootcamp with Joyce.

I have recognized an overall improvement in strength and endurance. I am 72 years old and in far better shape than I was at 50. I would not have seen this improvement without the classes I attend. Because, on my own, I just wouldn't do it!

My point is simply this: During my annual physical exam, my doctor asked what kind of exercise I did regularly and, specifically, what "bootcamp" was. When I finished describing what the various stations in bootcamp required of me, my doctor simply said, "Perfect! You're doing everything just perfect. Keep it up!"

I spent the first six months in bootcamp selectively choosing what would be the easiest way for me to get through the class. It finally occurred to me that maybe I should be performing the station exercises as listed. (Fitness instructors know what they're doing! Novel concept!) I have kept that New Year's resolution for the past five years now. It took me a year to do 60 jumping jacks in a minute, but now I can. 

I wouldn't be doing this without the YMCA and the group exercise classes. Not only does my doctor believe I'm doing great, my lab work shows it, too! I have been able to decrease medications multiple times over because of the progress I have made.