Do you know the real weight of the pandemic on your body?

It’s no secret that the pandemic has wreaked havoc on our mental and physical health. The results of the American Psychological Association’s survey on American pandemic stress levels in 2020 and physical health outcomes is out. Some of the highlights include:

• Nearly half of respondents had increased stress in 2020
• Over 40% gained weight
• Nearly 25% drank more alcohol
• Nearly 66% had significantly altered sleep patterns
• 1 out of 3 respondents reported anxiety or depression
• 12% considered suicide in the past 30 days

Clearly, pandemic stress has had grave consequences on American health. This could lead to an increase in more lingering health problems like hypertension and diabetes. (Take this quiz from Fitness Volt to determine your body type – and to see how your body type affects metabolism and overall health).

Humans are meant to be active and our overall immunity is improved when we prioritize exercise, not to mention stress and anxiety are reduced.

Prioritizing physical activity plays a part in increasing lifespan but also improves our overall mental state.

There has never been a better time for individuals and families of all ages to join the Kenosha YMCA. You can gain energy, reduce stress, lose weight, boost immunity and strengthen your mind, body and spirit at the Y. 

For over 90 years the Kenosha YMCA has been focused on providing community programs that strengthen our city. From the state of the art fitness center to aquatics, sports leagues and even licensed childcare, the Y leads the way in providing affordable programs for everyone from youth to seniors.  

The Y was created for busy people like you! There are options for all ages and a single location that’s open seven days a week (5 a.m. to 9 p.m. M-F, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat, and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sun) where you and your family can be active together. Plus there’s never a joiner fee or contract to join the Y. That’s just one of the many advantages you’ll find at the Kenosha YMCA. 

Your membership includes access to the two gymnasiums, indoor/outdoor walking tracks, whirlpool, sauna and more. In addition you’ll receive discounts on all programs and classes including personal training, group training, massage, free equipment orientation, drop-in childcare, private workout room, virtual Y, family fun days and 3 guest passes per year. You also receive nationwide membership privileges! 

The Y is more than just a fitness center, pool or gym. The Y can also meet your childcare needs for ages 2 through 12 years with low staff-to-child ratios. As a state-licensed facility the Y offers early childhood to school age care, as well as day camps. Ask about childcare scholarships. 

When you join the Kenosha YMCA, you become part of a world-wide organization that helps members improve their spirit, mind and body, while building a stronger sense of community. The benefits of membership abound! We offer a value-added membership that promises to get you healthy, keep you fit and help you achieve an overall healthy lifestyle. 

Kenosha YMCA welcomes people of all ages, abilities, incomes, ethnicity and religions. The Y has something to activate and engage your whole family. At the Kenosha YMCA you will also not be turned away due to the inability to pay. Financial assistance is available to those in need thanks to the For a Better Us Campaign.

What’s stopping you? Visit the Kenosha YMCA at 7101 53rd Street in Kenosha today or call 262-654-9622 for more information.