The start of the new year usually comes with resolutions to get in shape and lose weight. Bayside YMCA started 2018 with a newly renovated wellness center and a resolution to provide quality health …
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The start of the new year usually comes with resolutions to get in shape and lose weight. Bayside YMCA started 2018 with a newly renovated wellness center and a resolution to provide quality health services to the East Bay community.
Heather Avil, manager of Bayside, a branch of the Greater YMCA of Providence, said the reconfiguration and updating of the space was necessary and welcomed by members.
“We took advantage of a scheduled equipment upgrade and realized it was perfect timing to renovate the space and make it more user-friendly,” she said.
Closing the center just after Christmas, the project was dubbed “10 days to greatness." The carpeting was removed and replaced with rubber flooring. The walls were painted in calming shades of blue and a wall was removed, opening up the center.
“We wanted to open the gym to make it safer for free weights. All our branches went through a free-weight upgrade,” Ms. Avil said.
The branch replaces cardio equipment every three years and free weights every five years. Life Fitness is the brand of the cardio machines and other exercise equipment.
Members were encouraged to visit other branches during the closure, especially the Newman YMCA in Seekonk.
“We now have a nationwide membership so members can utilize any YMCA when traveling. We also have a sex offender database to ensure the safety of our members,” she said.
The cardio equipment was moved to maximize the space and the stretching area was relocated as well.
The renovation project was overseen by Neta Taylor, vice president of healthy living for the association and facilities director Ian McDermott.
“They handled the project from start to finish and helped with every aspect including organizing contractors to the new layout.
Kathryn Gresens, the health and wellness coordinator at the branch, said the changes have been well-received by members.
“It seems they like the space and think it's more inviting to those who are just starting with us to those who have been coming for years,” she said.
Ms. Gresens said they offer a growing personal training program and currently have five personal trainers on staff.
For more information on membership, go to gpymca.org or visit them on Facebook.