Laura discovered the Hamilton Downtown Family YMCA after moving here from Scotland. She was new to Hamilton and found the YMCA to be a friendly, welcoming place that also encourages a healthy, active lifestyle.
Laura works out in the fitness centre while her daughter Georgie, a toddler, enjoys YMCA children’s programming that includes singing songs, doing crafts, jumping on the trampoline and pedaling around the gym on a trike. As Georgie grows up she will have access to a wide variety of programming for children and youth, aimed at helping her stay fit, make new friends and develop new skills.
Laura appreciates the benefits of an active childhood. Growing up she played hockey and practised martial arts. “I had always been pretty fit.” But in her 20s she became more sedentary and when pregnant with Georgie, gained 120 pounds.
Regular workouts and healthy eating helped Laura regain a healthy body weight. She visits the YMCA five days a week and a typical workout consists of stretching and using weight machines and cardio equipment.
“Being a mom changes your life for the better,” says Laura, whose healthy body weight allows her to keep up with her busy toddler.
