YMCAs throughout the country have had to temporarily close their doors to help stop the spread of COVID-19, but in mid-March, the YMCA of the USA launched an offering that helps them remain connected to Y members—YMCA 360.
YMCA 360 is a new, free online platform offering exercise classes to Y members and non-members, according to the YMCA of the USA, Chicago.
More than a dozen classes, taught by Y instructors, are already available, including boot camp, barre, yoga and low-impact programs for seniors. Additional classes will be released through April and will expand to include art classes and activities for youth and families.
The program began through the Greater Wichita YMCA and is now being supported by multiple Ys, including the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties, the Greater Houston YMCA, the YMCA of Greater Charlotte and the YMCA Twin Cities.
“As the community learns the importance of social distancing, and more and more people are impacted by school and business closures, the Y recognizes the need for healthy living and youth development programs that can be accessed anywhere,” Ronn McMahon, president and CEO of the Greater Wichita YMCA, said in a media release. “Shifting to offer classes online through YMCA 360 felt like the best way to continue to live out our mission to strengthen communities.”
Kevin Washington, president and CEO of YMCA of the USA, said that COVID-19 has presented the country with unprecedented challenges, and YMCA 360 is one way the Y is responding to help people of all ages stay active and engaged.