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Kelowna’s downtown Y set to open

Newest healthy facility partners with UBC Okanagan to help folks meet health goals
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The newest location for the YMCA of the Okanagan will open on Thursday.

Situated at 505 Doyle Avenue on the main floor of the Interior Health building, this new fitness centre will support the health and wellness of both residents and employees in the downtown area and neighbouring communities.

An open house was held Monday at the facility.

“We’re so excited to bring new health and wellness opportunities to the downtown community,” said Kelley Taylor, centre manager of the Downtown Y. “This new fitness centre will help thousands of people live healthier and happier lives through the delivery of affordable quality YMCA programs and services.”

At 7,500 sq. ft., the downtown YMCA will offer a full suite of cardio and strength equipment, functional fitness areas, an 800 sq. ft. group fitness studio, a dedicated cycle studio, health initiatives program zone, day-use lockers and shower amenities.

“We have programs and equipment for everyone, whether they are training for a triathlon or have chronic conditions,” said Erica Hudson, marketing and communications manager for the Y. “Only 20 per cent of our population is getting the bare minimum amount of exercise to maintain health. That means 80 per cent of us are on path for chronic disease.”

The Y has partnered with UBC Okanagan who will also have an office in the facility and will be working with people who are pre-diabetic at the facility.

“It is our mission to build a healthier community,” said Taylor. “It is an amazing alliance to have health care, the YMCA and UBC Okanagan working all together in one space.”

Services will include a wide array of group fitness classes, one-on-one evidence-based personal coaching, and specialty health programs recognized by Interior Health and supervised by Certified Exercise Physiologists.

The YMCA of Okanagan recently confirmed they will be offering full reciprocity between the Kelowna Family YMCA and the Kelowna Downtown YMCA. All members of these facilities will have full access to both facilities including the amenities and services offered.

Memberships for the Downtown YMCA will be available for purchase when the centre opens on June 15. The community is invited to come see the new space and learn all about YMCA programs and services.

There are also career and volunteer opportunities available. Find out more at ymcaokanagan.ca

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