Healthy Living: Improving the nation’s health and well-being
In communities across the nation, the Y is a leading voice on health and well-being. With a mission centered on balance, the Y brings families closer together, encourages good health and fosters connections through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests. As a result, millions of youth, adults and families are receiving the support, guidance and resources needed to achieve greater health and well-being for their spirit, mind and body.
As a member of the YMCA of Portsmouth you not only have unlimited access to our state-of-the-art wellness center and group exercise classes on land and in the water, but also our friendly, supportive Fitness Coaches that are here to help you meet your wellness goals. Fitness Orientations and Group Exercise Classes are provided free of charge to members; Personal Training and specialty classes may incur a fee.
TO VIEW CURRENT PROGRAM DATES AND FEES, PLEASE CLICK THE PROGRAM GUIDE BUTTON IN THE COLUMN TO THE LEFT.
Family Time
Family Fun Nights
Looking for something for the whole family? Come to our Family Fun Nights that are scheduled throughout the year. It is a great time for everyone!
Toddler Time
This 45 minute class encourages parent/child interaction with other children. Meet in the gym for play time followed by a story, craft, and music. For children ages 2 - 4 years old.
Health, Well-Being & Fitness
Group Exercise Classes
Be part of a fun and great cardiovascular workout by participating in our Y Aerobics program. Aerobics Classes are for men and women of all different levels of physical conditioning and are free with a YMCA membership. Participants are welcome to attend unlimited classes for $50 a month. See current Aerobics Class Schedule for days and times.
Some of the exciting classes we offer are: Cycling, Low Impact, Kickboxing, Stretch in Motion, Zumba, Cardio Dance, High/Low Combo, Cardio Circuit, Boot Camp Fitness, Running Group, Weight/Core Challenge, Body Pump, Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates and Step Classes.
TRX Suspension Training
The goal of functional training, in general, is to emphasize the transfer of fitness gained from exercise into improved performance in sport and daily activities. Stand to train, perform intergraded, multi-joint exercises, train in 3-D, and maximize core function. See current Aerobics Class Schedule for days and times.
Ballroom Dance
Have fun exercising while you learn the dances that will help you look good at the next wedding reception. Level I classes are for beginners, level II for more advanced dancers. Different dances are taught in each session.
Fit for Two: Prenatal Water Exercise Class
Developed by the YMCA of the USA and structured around guidelines established by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, Fit for Two helps expectant moms increase cardiovascular health, muscular strength, and better prepare for their delivery. This 45 minute class is held in the supportive water environment of the pool. For more information or to register please contact Anne Shoaf at 757-483-9622.
Aquacise
Condition and tone muscles, burn fat and increase your cardiovascular fitness with this water workout. You do not need to be able to swim to benefit. The one hour class is free to YMCA members. Other water exercise classes include Deep H2O Combo, Water Tai Chi, and individual lap swim.
Adult Swim Lessons
Learn to swim or improve your current skills. Classes are available for those 16 years and older. Instruction is provided in the basic strokes and safety skills. The 30 minute classes are structured to help you meet your individual needs. You are never too old to learn to swim.
Weight Management Classes
What should you weigh? What kind of workout should I be doing? Sign-up for weight management classes and get your weight under control. Classes include weekly weight-ins, nutritional information, and other topics and discussion led by a Registered Dietician.
Personal Fitness Training
One-on-one personal instruction by our nationally certified trainers is a great way to get started or breathe new life into your exercise program. Personal training sessions that focus on running, kickboxing, yoga, or Pilates are also available. Our specialized fitness training will give you the in-depth workout you’ve been looking for. A physician’s referral may be required for some participants. Please call the Y Fitness Director for more information or to schedule an appointment. Sessions are 1 hour long.
ActivTrax
ActivTrax is a tool that creates customized workouts around your goals, strength and fitness experience. Each time you visit the Y, you’ll receive a new and customized workout that tells you exactly what you need to do to get in shape. ActivTrax eliminates intimidation, confusion and boredom, and makes working out easier for those new to exercise, and creates refreshing change for those with more experience.
Swedish Massage
Treat yourself to an hour long relaxing and therapeutic massage. Massages are offered by appointment for both men and women. Gift Certificates are available.
Certification Courses
CPR/AED For the Professional (Recertification only)
Participants must have successfully completed an American Red Cross CPR/FPR class in the past, may not be expired for more than two years. Participants must present certification cards on the day of the class. Participants are required to bring their own pocket mask.
Lifeguard Training
This American Red Cross lifeguarding class includes lifeguarding skills, first aid, and CPR/AED skills. Participants must pass a prerequisite swim test and be at least 15 years old. Proof of age must be presented the first day of class. Books and pocket masks are provided. Participants MUST attend every class.
Water Safety Instructor
The American Red Cross WSI course trains participants to teach American Red Cross swimming and water safety classes. Participants must be 16 years of age, pass a prerequisite swim test, and a pre-course test. Proof of age must be presented the first day of class. Books are provided. Participants MUST attend every class.
Active Older Adults
Body Recall
Improve circulation, posture, flexibility, balance and strength. Body Recall is an exercise program that teaches ways to gain physical self-management. It is a gentle exercise program with mild movements that help increase circulation to all parts of the body without stress to the heart.
Silver Sneakers
Through a partnership with Humana Health Care, this strength and conditioning class was designed specifically for older adults. Certified instructors guide participants through exercises that focus on strength, flexibility, mobility, range of motion, balance, agility, and coordination to improve activities of daily living. Yoga Stretch is a chair based yoga class - no getting on the floor! Y members and Humana members participate at no additional charge.
Arthritis Aquatics
All classes are led by an Arthritis Foundation YMCA Aquatic Program Instructor. These classes allow participants to exercise without putting excess strain on the joints and muscles, resulting in decreased pain and stiffness. All participants need a doctor’s note of referral and must attend the Basic Arthritis I class to be evaluated.
Basic I / Basic II - New participants must attend this class to be evaluated. This class includes gentle stretching, flexibility, range of motion, toning, and balance exercises.
In Motion - This class includes stretching, range of motion, toning, resistance, and mild cardio conditioning exercises.
Plus - This class includes leg and hip exercises, and includes stretching, range of motion, toning, resistance exercise, and mild cardio conditioning.
Arthritis for the Working Adult - This class includes stretching and exercises for the strengthening of arms and legs without the use of buoys.
Sports & Recreation
Adult Full-Court/Cross-Court Basketball
Come join a pick-up game of basketball at the Y! Full-Court is open to members age 16 and older, and Cross-Court is open to members 14 years and older. See current Gym Schedule for days and times.
Adult Gym Volleyball
Evening games open to all members. See current Gym Schedule for days and times.
Group Interests
Book Club
Club meets first Tuesday of every month at 12:00 PM. All readers are welcome!
January book: Still Alice by Lisa Genova
February book: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
March book: Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
April book: The Forever War by Dexter Filkins
May book: Fair and Tender Ladies by Lee Smith
Piano Lessons for Beginners
The YMCA of Portsmouth is offering private piano lessons for beginners ages 5 and up. All lessons are taught by instructor Jennifer Swallow, who has played for 18 years, has a Fine Arts Conservatory High School Diploma in Piano, and is a member of the Music Teachers National Association. Lessons are 30 minutes long and available Monday - Sunday. Register ato the Front Desk, or call 757-483-9622 for more details.
Special Events
February 10th - Valentine's Family Sock Hop
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Break out the poodle skirts and saddle shoes and join us for a 50's themed family evening of dance and activities. We'll have crafts, games, music, bingo, and much more! There is no charge for members, but pre-registration is required.