Oct 19, 2006 3 min read

The Uniontown Area YMCA will start a new session of classes the week of Oct. 30. Adult and youth classes will be offered. A person does not have to be a member of the YMCA to enroll, although members do receive discounts when registering.

Currently, the YMCA is taking registrations for its youth basketball league. Each year, the “Y” has about 300 boys and girls participating. The “Y” will take individuals or teams. Teams will be formed in divisions according to age/grades. Offered are fourth-grade and under division, fifth- and sixth-grade division and seventh- and eighth-grade division.

Instructional basketball will begin Oct. 30 and continue through Dec. 13. A second session will be taught beginning on Jan. 8. The program is designed for youth between ages 4 and 7. Classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

All youth gymnastic classes are taught on Mondays, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Skill levels are taught, starting with beginners and continuing on to advanced beginners and tumbling. The YMCA also offers preschool classes for those ages 2 to 5.

Swimming classes are always in demand. The “Y” begins teaching at age 6 months and continues through adults. Parents must accompany the child in the 6 months to 5-year-old class. The National YMCA Swim Program that has been taught for many years is utilized.

Adults interested in water exercise should register for the aquarobics class. Those interested in something a little less strenuous can sign up for the water-walking program. The aquarobics classes fill up early, so early registration is suggested.

Aerobics is one of the YMCA’s most popular activities. The classes are offered in seven-week sessions and a class participant can attend any or all of the classes throughout the week. The unlimited attendance is very popular.

Adult informal exercise is designed for those 40 years or age and older. Participants will have access to the strength training equipment, swimming pool, indoor track and all the cardiovascular equipment. A person can register for one day a week or a two-day a week class.

Personal trainers are available for anyone interested. Participants may set the time and day that best fits their schedules and one of the YMCA’s trainers will guide them through their exercise routine.

The “Y” sells memberships to youth, high school, adults, couples, single parent families or families. Those joining can put the payment on a credit card, pay cash or have it automatically deducted from their account on a monthly basis. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) is the newest thing on the market for the younger generation. Although starting overseas, it has caught on in this country and the YMCA offers it at no charge to its members. From 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, members can use the DDR to workout, compete against their friends or get instruction on how to become quicker and better. Six people can participate during each song. A score will be kept for two people while the other four practice.

Participants will get a good cardiovascular workout while they dance to the beat of the music.