The C.W. Avery Family YMCA is celebrating its 15th Anniversary on Wallin Drive in 2021! To commemorate this milestone, we are sharing the Y story of one of our fantastic members each month. Today, we are shining the spotlight on Rachel Carlson. Rachel joined the Y in 2006 and we are so excited to have her share some of her favorite memories from the last 15 years.
Q: What inspired you to join the Y?
Rachel: I remember feeling so excited that a new gym was opening so close to home. I have always been active in sports and fitness and I wanted a gym close to home. I did have a membership through work at a fitness center 20 miles away, which was not always convenient, and the current local gyms were not a good fit (I had done a few trial classes/workouts and none were quite right.) So when the YMCA opened in Plainfield, I quickly checked it out, loved it, and became one of the first members.
Q: What activities are you most involved in/enjoy the most at the Y?
Over the past 2 years my involvement in the Y has changed a bit, and within the last year and a half, I trained for and completed my first full Ironman triathlon. Training for and accomplishing that personal goal along with COVID restrictions changed my usual workout routine. I did a lot more outdoor swimming/cycling/running, and less group exercise classes. My previous usual activities were a mix of group strength classes, group cycling classes, yoga, TRX, master’s swim, personal training, and individual cardio/strength interval work in the fitness center. In my opinion, the pool at the Avery Y is the best pool in the area for swimmers! My child has participated in many of the youth programs and after school care and he has enjoyed them all. Obviously, I enjoy the variety of classes/programs offered at the Y.
Q: What are some of your favorite Y memories?
My favorite Y memories involve the friends I have made over the past 15 years. Too numerous to count! As an adult, it is not easy to make new friends. The community at the Y is so special, and I made new friends easily within the welcoming walls of the Avery Y.
Q: How has the Y impacted your life?
The Y has greatly impacted my life. It is the place where I continue to strive toward my personal fitness goals. It is the place where I have forged many friendships. It is the place where I could trust that my young child was well cared for while I participated in sanity-saving self care – usually involving a group exercise class and chatting with friends. It is the place where my son learned to swim. It is one of my happy places.
Q: What would you say to someone who has never been to the Y and is interested in joining the Y?
Come check it out! It’s a great place- so welcoming, with a variety of activities. You’re sure to find something that you’ll love.
We would like to thank Rachel and her family for their incredible support of the Y over the last 15 years! We look forward to making a positive impact on members of our community throughout 2021 and beyond!
(Photo credit: Julie Miller Photography)
