A BETTER PERSON-BECAUSE OF THE Y

Quite a few years ago, I said to my wife, “I think I’ll take a spin class at the Y”. The instructor greeted me, and asked if I had done this before? She could tell I was out of place and out of shape! I told her, “If I pass out, call 911 and keep going!”

This day ultimately changed my life. Since then, through years of disciplined workouts and maintaining a sensible diet, I’ve lost 90 pounds. I’m very physically fit. At the Y, I spend most days lifting weights and attending spin/cardio classes. My whole lifestyle has changed for the better!

Recently, I was asked if that is because of my “lifestyle change”, I had lost friends? I thought about it, and said, “No, I’ve found better friends!” My friends are at the Y. Some are staff, some are members and I look forward to seeing them every day. They inspire me and enrich me, and I am driven because of them!

About six months ago, a friend of mine suggested that I would be “perfect” as a spin instructor. I considered it for a while, then figured “why not?”, this may be the next step in my Y journey. I’ve been a spin instructor now at the Y for the past few months. It’s an unbelievable experience, the support I’ve gotten from the Y community has been tremendous. And, as I write this, I’m also preparing to co-teach a special spin class this evening with one of the biggest instructors (and friend) I’ve ever met! My life is like a fairytale, it’s surreal and I’m having tons of fun!

I feel like I’m a better person, a better husband, a better father, and a better friend! Thank you!

-Mike, a Member of the Greater Valley YMCA-Nazareth Branch