East Branch YMCA

Overview

• YMCA of Greater Montgomery is a comprehensive community wellness organization operating 17 branches across Montgomery and Elmore Counties, focusing on mental and physical health through fitness, aquatic, youth development, and senior programs.
• The overall atmosphere is supportive, inclusive, and family-oriented, emphasizing character building, teamwork, and lifelong wellness in a fun, safe environment. Members enjoy a sense of community, with testimonials highlighting motivating coaches, weight loss success, and strong social connections.

Features & Amenities

• Access to 11+ locations with shared membership privileges.
• Over 300 exercise classes weekly, including Les Mills BodyPump, SPRINT, water aerobics, yoga, and stretching.
• 500+ pieces of exercise equipment across facilities.
• 13 gymnasiums for sports and fitness.
• 15 pools, including 3 indoor pools for lap swimming, lessons, and family swim.
• 60+ certified aerobics instructors.
• Y Mobile App for schedules, registration, and more.
• Complimentary guest passes and child watch programs.
• Additional perks: Camp Chandler for overnight camps, waterfront activities, archery, horseback riding, and more at select sites.

Services

• Youth Sports: Programs promoting activity, teamwork, and sportsmanship for all ages/skill levels.
• Child Care: Safe, nurturing early education and after-school care.
• Swim Programs: Lessons, Safety Around Water, Summer Swim League, Montgomery Barracudas competitive team, Masters Swim, lifeguard training, water aerobics.
• Teen Programs: Mentorship, leadership, academic support, and activities.
• Senior Programs (Active Older Adults): Tailored fitness, social events, potlucks, games, Brown Bag Bus for food insecurity.
• Camps at Camp Chandler: Overnight options like Explorers (6-9), Voyagers (8-11), Rangers (8-14), Specialty (10-14, e.g., Skiventure, Wrangler, Pioneer), S.W.A.T. for 16-year-olds.
• Group Exercise & Fitness: High-intensity classes, personal development.
• Events: Breakfast with Santa, New Year’s Camp, Member Appreciation Hot Cocoa Bar, toy drives.
• Community Impact: Financial assistance, volunteering, donations for accessibility.

Pricing

• Membership: $0 join fee for new members through Dec 12 with toy donation (limited-time promo). General rates not detailed; financial assistance available.
• Camp Chandler Overnight Camps:
  • Explorers (members): $295, non-members: $320.
  • Voyagers (members): $370, non-members: $395.
  • Rangers (members): $660, non-members: $710 (weekend add-on $100-$110).
  • Specialty (members): $785, non-members: $835.
• Other programs (e.g., swim lessons, classes): Registration via app/site; financial aid options.

Location & Hours

• Multiple branches including:
  • Bell Road YMCA: 2435 Bell Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 (indoor lap pool 5:00 AM - 8:30 PM select days).
  • Grandview Family YMCA, Wetumpka YMCA, East Family YMCA, Downtown YMCA, Camp Chandler, and 12+ others.
• Hours: Vary by branch/program; check schedules online (e.g., group ex, pool schedules). Events like classes (e.g., BodyPump 9:30-10:30 AM) and camps have specific times.
• Full list: Locations page.

Notes

• What makes this YMCA special: Over 180 years serving the community with a focus on healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility. Unique offerings like Camp Chandler (campfire, watersports, ax throwing, horseback), competitive Barracudas swim team (since 1978), and initiatives like Safety Around Water and Brown Bag Bus. 100% of donations fund programs; strong emphasis on inclusivity via financial assistance. No dedicated saunas mentioned, but extensive aquatic facilities (pools) support relaxation and fitness. Community testimonials praise staff, fun environment, and life-changing impacts.