Family Day is an ideal opportunity for families to spend time together, says Gordon Goldsmith, communications manager of the YMCA of Greater Vancouver.
He adds spending the day at the YMCA is a great way for every member of the family to be together, even if they have different interests.
“While the son is in the weight room, playing basketball or swimming, mom can be doing yoga, Zumba or lifting weights of her own,” said Goldsmith. “It’s a way to spend time together even if they’re doing different things.”
To ensure families of all ages can explore everything the YMCA has to offer, locations in Vancouver, Chilliwack and Camp Elphinstone on the Sunshine Coast are opening their doors Feb. 9 between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to the public for free.
“It’s one more way for families to be active together so the Y is happy to open its doors,” said Goldsmith.
He adds because it’s common for many family members to spend more time in front of a screen than being active, the Y can be essential in helping them get off the couch or desk chair.
“Many families don’t have a plan to get active, but the Y can help,” said Goldsmith.
That’s not to say Family Day at the Y is focused strictly on exercise. Free events at Langara Family YMCA on West 49th Avenue also include a bouncy castle, face painting, arts and crafts and a session on making healthy snacks. Free activities include swimming, family ping pong, soccer, relay races, floor ball, family/kids yoga and an open swim.
At the Robert Lee YMCA on Burrard Street, activities include an open swim, bouncy castle, tumbling, face painting, a healthy snack making session, parachute songs and games, music and movement and circle time.
Participants visiting the Y on Family Day also have an opportunity to win a year-long membership. Meanwhile, existing members can add a spouse or child in February and they’ll receive a 30-day free membership.
New members who join in February can add their family free for the first month.
For a complete Family Day schedule and more information about the YMCA visit vanymca.org.
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