Yvette Lyons currently serves as the Senior Health and Well-being Director at the Lakewood Family YMCA. She shares her thoughts on the events of the past year and a half and where we are as an association today.
“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life.” –Prince
What brings you joy at work?
The past year and a half has brought many unique challenges to our roles at the Y. Constant changes in COVID guidelines, difficult member conversations, and accepting the unknown can be overwhelming at times. With all that being said, the one thing that has consistently brought me joy during this time has been our group exercise program.
When we first reopened, we offered 11 reservation-based classes a week. Members were coming in to reserve their spots two weeks in advance. The classes were often full but they wouldn’t let that stop them. They’d participate on the track or even in the hallway. Each month I was able to add additional classes and reengage more instructors. Instructors have been eager to reconnect with our community and their enthusiasm is contagious.
Teaching group fitness is almost always the best part of my day. To quote Elle Woods from the iconic movie Legally Blonde, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy!” This has proven true for me time and time again. My hope is the joy and enthusiasm I experience is felt by the members we serve.
Leading classes has allowed me to form meaningful connections with members. For instance, Jean is 89 and has been attending my senior fitness classes the past six months. At first, she used a cane and spent most of the time in a chair. Now she fully participates and often shares her pain level has improved and she can move around her house faster and more freely. Stories like this are what make my work meaningful and helps give me a purpose.
Teaching group fitness was my first role at the YMCA. Now 11 years later, I am continually grateful for the joy that leading classes has had on my personal and professional growth and experience.