Glenda Dodd's Story
02-06-2025
81-year-old Glenda Dodd was looking to make a lifestyle change and regain mobility when her journey with the YMCA began in 2012.
At 68 years old she started her Y journey in the swimming pool at the Ron Edwards Family YMCA, “it was a stress relief that made me want to come out even in snow, that was the foundation for my routine...hydrotherapy.”
Then, in 2014 onward through a variety of YMCA programs, Glenda went from pool activities to fitness programs that gradually transformed into other routines.
“My two favourite programs are Yoga and Zumba. I did Zumba on Zoom [through the YThrive program] and the live interaction, that ability to hear and speak, inspired me to do more.”
Glenda didn’t exactly have a plan for her fitness journey, but she knew she wanted l to stay consistent. “I didn’t keep track of what I was doing and only occasionally jotted down my weight if I noticed a few pounds dropped.”
In the first three years of her fitness journey, Glenda noticed she had more mobility in her body and was able to continually push herself to new goals. Her diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure have all become easier to manage since becoming a member of the YMCA.
13 years later, Glenda has managed to stay true to her goal. She isn’t perfect—but she’s been consistent with her workouts, eating habits and new lifestyle.
“Weight loss was not my goal, but I have lost 70 pounds. If I have a goal, it’s to be a YMCA member at 90-years-old. Staying consistent and committed and putting this in writing almost feels like a contract I don’t want to break.”
“Looking back, I truly believe the pool was the foundation of my commitment, it was my first measurement of improvement.”
Glenda continues to attend the Y almost every day, taking classes and working out in the fitness centre. She’s an inspiration, one who has become an advocate for new members of the Y community.
“If any part of my journey will encourage anyone in any way, then that would be one more reason for me to continue this journey.”
