GREATER JOLIET AREA YMCA

At the Y, we know that taking the first step on your health and wellness journey is often the most difficult. That’s why, at the Y, we strive each day to create a welcoming environment and provide our members with the support they need to achieve their goals.

Since joining the Morris Hospital YMCA last year, member Melissa Jorstad has found that being part of the Y community has boosted her confidence in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

“I hadn’t really worked out since 2019 and I think one of the barriers that held me back for a long time was thinking I’m out of shape and I’m not athletic enough to work out or do fitness classes. As it turns out, a lot of people have that kind of background and we’re all growing together. That sense of community has meant a lot to me,” Melissa said. 

Melissa credited a combination of group exercise classes and personal training sessions for keeping her focused on her health and wellness goals. 

“I do not do self-directed exercise very well. I need groups, I need people, I need structure. You can jump on a treadmill anywhere, but you can’t get the same instructor help you get in a yoga class, or with a personal trainer, like you do at the Y. And I work from home, so the group classes have been a really nice way to connect to other people,” she said. 

Melissa now visits the Y up to six times per week, something she also said wouldn’t be possible without the support of the onsite childcare offered to members while they work out.

“I have a three-year old and a one-year old and all the staff members in Kids Corner know my kids at this point. There are so many things for my kids to do and the playground is so much fun for them. They love being able to play outside when the weather is nice,” Melissa said.

Looking ahead, Melissa said she is excited to kickstart fall by participating in this weekend’s Corn Fest 5K.

“I’ve never been a runner, that was never me, but I did the Couch to 5K class so now I’m signed up. That would have never happened if I wasn’t coming to the Y,” she said.

We are so proud to have Melissa in our Y community and we wish her, and all Y members participating in the 5K, the best. We know everyone will do great!

If you are interested in working with a YMCA personal trainer, now is the perfect time to start! The Y’s September Personal Training Sale runs through the end of the month and you can learn more by clicking here.