Cape Ann YMCA

April 14, 2026

Dierdre Baker
Manchester, MA

My Second Home – A Lifeline for Health and Community I’ve been a member of Cape Ann YMCA for 3 years now, and at 56, I can honestly say I’m in the best shape of my life. I was blessed to be given a free gym membership for a year through the Cornerstone program. My former gym did not help my health recovery one bit. I truly appreciate being brought into the YMCA and will forever be grateful. This gym is a place that is welcoming, high-energy, and inclusive of all ages and fitness levels. The Classes: Challenging and Fun The variety of group classes is what keeps me coming back. I’m a regular in the Strength Train Together sessions—it’s the perfect way to get that full-body workout without feeling intimidated by the heavy lifting floor. I also mix in Pilates Fusion and various strength classes to keep my core tight and my joints mobile. The instructors Cassie, Vanessa, Chelsea, Lisa, and Kate always push me to be my best! I have been trying other classes and am always amazed how incredible every class is! For cardio, the Spin classes are fantastic. The music is great, and you can really push yourself at your own pace. Talia Pata really motivates me to get better "One percent each day." The Tech: EGYM is a Game Changer One of my absolute favorite features is the EGYM circuit. As someone who sometimes worries about proper form or how much weight I should be lifting, EGYM takes the guesswork out of it. It adjusts the machines automatically to my height and strength, tracks my progress, and even gamifies the workout. It’s efficient, effective, and honestly, a bit addictive! The Staff: Knowledgeable and Kind What truly sets this YMCA apart is the people. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable. They don't just "lead" the class; they actively watch your form and offer modifications if you have a nagging injury or a physical limitation. They are always willing to stay after class to answer questions or help you set up your bike. Every time I come to the Cape Ann YMCA, I am greeted with a smile and a sincere hello from the staff at the front desk. Then, as I move throughout the building, I often see one of the group class instructors who always makes feel welcome. I would love to give a shout out to the custodians. They work extremely hard to make the gym clean and inviting.

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