Staying active as a family can be challenging, especially for busy parents juggling work, school and after-school activities. But with the right tools and support, healthy habits can easily become part of your weekly routine.
The Cota family, Daniel, Sara and their sons, Breckin (9) and Killian (8), use their YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City membership to do just that. Here are four ways they keep their health goals on track!
1. Find motivation and activities that fit your schedule
Between work, parenting and home life, finding time to exercise can feel impossible. For Sara, flexibility made all the difference.
“I needed a place that offered childcare, and I felt like my own exercise routine wasn’t working,” she said. “With the YMCA, I discovered how great and varied the group classes are.”
With several convenient locations and a wide range of options — from Pilates and barre to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) — Sara can fit in workouts that align with her changing schedule and fitness needs. While she regularly visits the Downtown and North Side YMCAs near her home, Sara appreciates the freedom to take classes at other locations to keep things fresh.
2 Personalize Your Workout Plan
For Daniel, a firefighter, staying fit is part of the job. But after years of doing the same workouts he learned in high school, he found that a YMCA personal trainer helped take his fitness to the next level.
“Having someone personally structure exercises for you is very helpful, especially when I might be having some back pain or shoulder issues,” he said. “My personal trainer helps me modify my exercises to work around any injuries.”
3 Get Kids Moving Too
Healthy habits start early! The Cota kids enjoy taking part in YMCA programs like Kid’s Fit, soccer and the YMCA Thunder Basketball League.
“Through the Kid’s Fit class, they’ve learned how to properly use gym equipment, done calisthenics and speed drills, and worked on sports coordination and agility,” said Sara.
The youth programs at the YMCA build coordination and confidence while keeping kids active and having fun.
4 Make It a Family Habit
The Cotas agree that what makes the YMCA special is its welcoming, family-friendly environment.
“The YMCA has something for everyone and is reasonably priced, making it ideal for families,” Daniel said. “Everyone should feel comfortable at the YMCA. There are people of all ages, skills and abilities there.”
Whether you’re wanting to reach your health goals, needing time to unwind or looking for ways to keep the kids active, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City offers friendly spaces, affordable options and programs designed for the whole family.
