Think you know everything your YMCA of Greater Erie membership gets you? Think again.
Sure, we all know about the gym, the pool, and the fitness classes—but did you know your membership unlocks seriously awesome perks you might not be using? From free child care (yes, really!) to early access to some of the most in-demand kids' programs, you’re going to want to take advantage of every single one of these hidden gems. And there's never been a better time with "Y Your Way," a new, customizable membership plan perfect for modern families of all shapes and sizes.
Get ready to say, “Wait… I get THAT with my Y membership?!”
This article is sponsored by the YMCA of Greater Erie.
1. Free Child Care While You Work Out (Or Just Breathe) π§βοΈ
Parents, listen up: Kid Zone is a game-changer. While you take a yoga class, hit the treadmill, or just enjoy a few peaceful moments in the lobby with a coffee (we won’t judge), your little one gets free, supervised playtime.
No extra charge. No stress. Just guilt-free "me time." Why are we not shouting this from the rooftops?!
πΉ Bonus for parents with babies! The Fit Mom & Baby Class is a brand-new offering at the Eastside Y designed for moms and little ones (ages 6 weeks to 15 months). It’s the perfect way to bond, move, and meet other parents while getting in a light workout.
Find out more about the new flexible Y Your Way membership pricing plan.
It's never been more affordable to join the Y!
Build your circle now:
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2. Early Access to the Busiest Kids’ Programs π―
We all know how fast swim lessons, dance, and martial arts classes fill up. YMCA members get first dibs on sign-ups for some of the most popular youth programs. That means no last-minute scramble and no waitlists. It also gives your kids a chance to try out new sports without a costly commitment.
Early access = parenting win.
3. Discounts on Unique Wellness Experiences β¨
Think the Y is just about treadmills and weights? Nope. Your membership gets you special discounts on mind & body experiences you won’t find at your typical gym, including:
βοΈ Reiki healing sessions
βοΈ Crystal workshops
βοΈ Guided meditation & stress relief classes
This is next-level self-care!
πΉ Looking for something different? How about table tennis, magic tricks, pickleball or even self-defense classes? The Y has tons of unique programs to keep both kids and adults engaged in more than just traditional workouts.
4. An All-Access Pass to the Best Pools in Erie π
Indoor pools. Outdoor pools. Waterslides. Yep, year-round swimming is INCLUDED in your membership! Whether it’s family swim night, lap time, or just splashing around, the Y’s pools are open every season, every weather ... every time your kids ask.
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5. A Massive Menu of Free Fitness Classes πͺ
Forget paying per class—your membership includes dozens of free group fitness options every week. Whether you’re into HIIT, cycling, strength training, or yoga, there’s something for everyone.
And bonus? No two classes are ever the same, so you’ll never get bored.
πΉ Want to shake things up? Try a new class or explore different wellness options with the Y’s ever-expanding lineup—there’s always something fresh to check out!
My husband and I at a Glenwood Y pilates class:
So... Are You Actually Using Your Membership to the Fullest?
If you’ve been sleeping on these perks, it’s time to change that. Your YMCA of Greater Erie membership is so much more than a gym pass—it’s a family membership, a wellness retreat, and a community hub all rolled into one.
Not a member yet? Now’s the perfect time to join, with the new Y Your Way flexible membership plan. Get started here and unlock these awesome perks today! I'll see you at the Y!