No Fee When You Join the YMCA Now (And More Reasons to Sign-Up)

10/1/18 - By Jessica Laird

When you're a parent, the new year pretty much starts in September. Summer's over, school's back in session, and we're all getting back into our regular routines—or at least trying to, right? If you're one of the many moms and dads still attempting to fill up your kiddo's fall calendar or maybe even make some mid-year resolutions of your own, the YMCA of Greater New York just might be your new best friend.

If you've never stopped by your local YMCA, you may be surprised by just how much you're missing. Lucky for you, all locations are hosting open houses on Saturday, October 6, 2018 from 11:00am to 3:00pm, so you can take a look at all of the programs and amenities available at each location. And in addition to waiving their joiner's fee from now until October 8, 2018, we've got plenty more reasons a YMCA membership will be a total family game-changer this fall.

There are 22 branches and over 100 off-site program locations across NYC.

Proximity is key for busy parents! With loads of locations across the five boroughs, there's a really good chance there's a YMCA right in your neighborhood—and if not, then possibly by your kids' school or your office. Find your nearest location here.

Kids (and adults) can dance, cook, tumble, or do just about anything else.

From babies and tots to tweens and teens, the YMCA offers affordable programs for all ages and interests. While options vary from one location to the next, you can pick from engaging classes like Barefoot Baby Boogie, Little Chefs, Isadora Duncan Modern Dance, and Family Zumba. Of course, there's no shortage of adult classes too. The YMCA actually offers 1,200 fitness classes every week.

They've got indoor pools—and those aren't so easy to come by in this city.

When it comes to swimming, the YMCA has been a family-favorite for years! Little ones can start classes as young as six months old, and programs are available right through adulthood. Bigger kids can join a swim team, while teens can even take lifeguard training. Read more about the YMCA's extensive swim program here.

You can enjoy awesome amenities you hadn't even thought about.

Did you know many YMCA locations have steam and sauna rooms where parents can seriously unwind? And super spacious locker rooms that make getting the whole family in and out a breeze? Meanwhile, if you're looking to make some of your own fitness goals this fall, a Y coach can help you develop a personalized plan for free, and guest passes make it easy to plan a special playdate with friends.

Child watch is available, so that you can actually workout.

Skipping the gym because no one's free to watch the kids? Well, that ends now because free child watch is included in your membership! Kids can enjoy fun and creative play in a totally safe environment while you make the most of the YMCA's state-of-the-art exercise equipment or take that class you've been meaning to try.

There's no joiner's fee when you sign-up, stat.

Yeah, we'll say it again... All YMCA locations are waiving their joiner's fee from now until October 8, 2018. You can sign-up on-site when you head to one of the open house events, or you can register quickly and easily online. There are membership options for families of all sizes—plus packages just for adults—and financial assistance is available for those in need. If you'd like to browse locations, programs, or learn even more about the YMCA, you can also visit their website for more details!