YMCA Of Delaware: Here To Keep Everyone Healthy And Safe During The Winter Months

Physical Activity Vital to Reducing Disease and Stress

Wilmington, Delaware, December 2, 2020 – With the holiday season here and colder months ahead, the YMCA of Delaware is reminding everyone of the importance of regular physical activity and living a healthy lifestyle in order to maintain and improve overall well-being.

“Exercise is more important now than ever before because of its many health benefits including reducing disease and stress, improving brain health, managing weight, building strength and maintaining our ability to do everyday activities,” said Deborah Bagatta-Bowles, President and CEO.

The YMCA of Delaware is dedicated to providing a safe space for individuals and families to remain active. Since reopening their doors in June, the Y has had more than 400,000 visits with no Covid-19 outbreaks. The health and safety of members and staff are top priorities with the Y following all health and safety guidelines set forth by the state of Delaware which include the highest standards for cleaning and hygiene.

“We understand that not everyone is ready to get back to their “usual” workout routines. However, we have made changes that give our families choices in how they work out depending on their level of comfort. We encourage everyone to stop into their local Y to learn about new programming options and take a tour to fully understand our health and safety protocols,” said Bagatta-Bowles.

YMCA’s across the state of Delaware offer the following to ensure a safe and comfortable experience:

  • Installation of Needle Point Bipolar Ionization Units in the HVAC equipment at all locations. These units are recommended by the American Society of Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Engineers (ASHRAE) and are proven to be 99.4 percent effective in killing COVID-19.
  • Large facilities and ample space that allow members to stay a safe distance from others
  • New fitness center layouts to provide spaced out equipment
  • Daily health checks for all employees
  • Strict enforcement of state-mandated mask policies and social distancing requirements
  • Outdoor and online exercise class options
  • One-on-one personal training
  • Small group fitness training (no more than 8-10 people in a group)
  • Virtual in-studio classes (average 5 participants per class)
  • Safe youth programs including Kid’s Club, Youth Fit Club, Soccer Skills, Teen Nights, Dance Class, Agility Training, Swim Lessons, and Swim Team- all follow health protocols for youth
  • Regular family nights and events with safe, socially distant activities outdoors and indoors
  • Pools for lap and family swim as well as group exercise classes
  • Large gymnasiums that serve as walking tracks and areas to work out independently

In addition to providing opportunities for everyone to stay physically active, the Y is also the largest childcare provider in the state. Since March, they safely served almost 200 children weekly in emergency childcare for essential workers, provided care to nearly 1,500 children in summer camp (June to September) and currently serve nearly 500 children in Learning Support Centers and After School Care.

 

For more information about YMCA of Delaware membership and programs, visit www.ymcade.org. Financial assistance is available.

 

About the YMCA of Delaware

The YMCA of Delaware is Delaware’s largest non-profit organization committed to empowering youth, fostering healthy living, and promoting strong communities. With seven branches statewide, a youth resource center, and an overnight camp and conference center in Worton, Maryland, the Y has developed long-standing relationships and a physical presence in Delaware so it can deliver lasting personal and social change. We are committed to serving everyone – regardless of age, income or background –nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving Delaware’s health and wellbeing and creating a healthy, inclusive community where all people reach their full potent


Our Mission


To empower youth, foster healthy living, and promote strong communities.

Junior Coats Basketball League

Practice like the pros! In partnership with the Delaware Blue Coats, the YMCA of Delaware is registering for the Junior Coats Basketball League! Spots are filling up quickly for the upcoming season, learn more and sign up here!

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