YMCA focused on uniting families

YMCA focused on uniting families

The City of Sydney Centres managed by the YMCA have launched family-orientated programs aimed at promoting exercise and inclusiveness.

Research from the Australian Institute of Family Studies found only seven per cent of parents spend six to seven days of the week in active play with their children, compared to 30 per cent of parents spending no time in
“active play” with their 10 to 11-year-olds.

A link between lack of active play and obesity has been identified by YMCA, with 25 per cent of children are classified as overweight or obese in Australia.

Both Council and the YMCA believe that aquatic fitness and recreation facilities are not solely about fitness, but play a crucial role in uniting families and communities.

General Manager of YMCA, Richard Price said the family focus is essential for the community, not solely in the inner city but across the state.

“The Y, in partnership with the City of Sydney, is dedicated to providing a ‘third place’ for families – in all their various forms – away from the pressures of work and home, where they can be healthy and active together,” he said.

“The Centre’s family focus is driven by an undeniable need for families to spend more quality, active time together, in light of ever-increasing time and financial pressure. Our all-inclusive programs offer an affordable way for families to have that time, while learning new skills and staying fit and healthy together.”

The Blakely family are regulars at the Cook and Phillip Park Aquatic and Fitness Centre. Father of two, Cam Blakely said the Centre is great for family sports.

“Even when there’s not a program on that one of us is doing, we’ll come down
together for a casual swim or to kick around a ball around on one of the sports courts,” Mr Blakely said.

“There’s a real sense of community at Cook and Phillip Park. You feel like you’re part of a bigger, extended family when you’re down there, not just somewhere to work-out. We’re all on a first name basis with staff which makes all the difference.

“Sure it’s great to see our kids being active from a young age and learning
important skills, but it’s being there as a family unit that’s most important.”

The YMCA initiatives include family membership and family-friendly group
fitness classes, in addition to an assortment of events, including family fun days and dive-in movie nights.

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