The New Year has arrived and health and fitness is one of the most popular resolutions. If you're a first-time gym membership holder, or if it has been a while since you've hit the gym, here are some frequently asked questions and helpful tips from our healthy living staff at the Y.

How can I achieve my resolutions at the Y?

-Check out our winter brochure for our specialty classes for all ages and fitness levels.

-We have personal training options to help everyone reach their goals.

These fitness incentives will help you maintain your New Year's resolutions all year round.

-Every member has the opportunity to meet one on one with a trained Life Center staff member to have a free personal and confidential fitness assessment and to set customized and attainable fitness goals. Your assessment will measure data that includes blood pressure, body fat percentage, metabolic age, bone mass, and body composition. A follow up appointment can be made after some time to track your progress.

-Don't want to work out alone? Check out our new free group exercise schedule to find a workout that's right for you.

-Busy parent? Let your kids play in Child Watch under supervision from our trained staff. School age children can play in the Pepsi cube.

 What kinds of sanitary precautions should I take when using different machines?

Our Life Center has sanitary stations with products to keep shared equipment clean. Wipe things down both before and after you use them. Always be sure to wash your hands when you're done with your workout!

The free weight room seems intimidating - do you have any advice for getting comfortable with this area?

Our trained and educated Life Center Staff is always available to answer questions and show you proper form. You can also try working with a friend or having a partner to spot you and help motivate you through the lift.

I'm not quite sure how to use the machines, what should I do?

If you spot a new machine that looks like something you would like to try, but are unsure about how to use it, check with our Life Center Staff. You can recognize them by their red staff shirts. They will be more than happy to show you proper form and get you off to a good start.

"It is so fabulous to watch these participants discover a new portion of themselves that is stronger and more determined than what they realized they had in them"