Embracing Community Wellness Through Fitness at the YMCA
In the fast-paced world we live in, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important than ever. The Kingston and Ulster County YMCA offers a wealth of opportunities to promote fitness and wellness for all ages. Recently, the YMCA hosted its 33rd Annual Indoor Triathlon, showcasing not only competitive spirit but also the commitment to community health and engagement. This article will delve into the various aspects of the YMCA’s offerings, emphasizing practical fitness advice and the importance of community wellness.
On Sunday, March 8, the Kingston and Ulster County YMCA held its 33rd Indoor Triathlon. The event consisted of a 15-minute swim, a 20-minute Airdyne bike ride, and a 20-minute run. The total distance accumulated determined the winners.
Having been a member of the YMCA since 1964, I’ve recently taken on a role at the front desk, which has afforded me greater insight into the invaluable services this organization offers. Initially, I saw the Kingston YMCA as just a gym, but I have since realized it serves as a comprehensive wellness center, catering to families and individuals from toddlers to seniors. In fact, senior citizens make up the largest demographic of Y members, reflecting the facility’s inclusive approach.
I have been a member of the YMCA on and off since 1964, and I have recently been employed at the front desk for a few weekday mornings. Working at the Y has given me greater insight into the indispensable services it provides.
I always enjoyed the atmosphere at the Kingston YMCA, which felt like a healthier version of the television show Cheers, where everyone knows your name. I recognized that its outreach programs had brought more people into the building and that it had become more representative of the community, but I thought of it as a “gym.”
I now see that it goes far beyond being a gym. In reality, it has become a wellness center. It provides services for families and individuals from preschool age through senior citizens. As a matter of fact, senior citizens are the largest group of Y members.
One engaging initiative is the “Kick-Ass Old Farts” (KAOF) workout group, which began as a perk for IBM employees in 1980. Although IBM has since departed, the group continues to thrive, welcoming newcomers aged 89 to 95. They engage in workouts while enjoying a nostalgic soundtrack from the 1950s. This highlights the YMCA’s focus on maintaining fitness as we age, proving that wellness knows no age limits.
Speaking of seniors, The Wall Street Journal published an article in May 2025 about the Y’s “Kick‑Ass Old Farts” (KAOF) workout group. The group was started in 1980 as a perk for IBM employees. IBM may have left town, and the members may have retired, but the group continues and eagerly welcomes new members.
The KAOF members range in age from 89 to 95. They continue the workout activities from the 1980s and use the same 1950s playlist they started with. Hank Van Parys continues to be the pied piper of this merry band of seniors. The Y offers several wellness classes and activities to help seniors address the health issues they face and provide a healthy social outlet.
The YMCA also caters to younger generations with a variety of programs for children and teens. From affordable daycare services and swim lessons to summer camps, the Y actively supports working families. Additionally, programs like the “school-out” initiative during holidays and school vacations provide safe, engaging environments for children.
The Wednesday morning Coffee Club is a more varied group than the KAOF’s. I greet them every week. It’s a group for retirees and people who have to get in their fitness work before going to work. These “die‑hards” often arrive by 5 a.m.
On the other side of the age spectrum are the year‑round, affordable early childhood and daycare services, swim lessons, summer camps, and other activities the YMCA provides for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary‑school‑age children. These services are vital for working families.
The Y also has a “school‑out” program for holidays and school vacations. It has a teen center and recreation programs for all ages, basketball leagues, volleyball leagues, pickleball, and much more. In the 21st century, the YMCA has evolved into an intergenerational “community hub.”
When it comes to fitness facilities, the YMCA offers comprehensive resources. Members have access to a pool, multiple gyms, weight rooms, cardiovascular and spin rooms, a rowing center, and various classes catering to all fitness levels. This makes it difficult to find a more worthwhile investment in health and wellness.
As a “gym”, the Y offers more than any club. The Y has a pool, three gyms, three weight rooms, a cardiovascular center, a spin‑bike center, a rowing center, a yoga room, and a vast array of fitness classes and activities for adults and youth.
When you consider the bang for your fitness “buck,” the YMCA cannot be matched. For all information on what the YMCA of Kingston and Ulster offers, visit https://ymcaulster.org/.
YMCA Indoor Triathlon Highlights
At this year’s Indoor Triathlon, competitors showcased incredible dedication and strength. Top overall male finishers included Ian McGrew, Brandon Roman, and Massimo Cordella, while the top female finishers were Kelly Fitzgerald, Lydia Dillon, and Stephanie Baird. It’s inspiring to witness such achievements, especially as I participated in the triathlon as part of my rehabilitation.
YMCA Indoor Tri Results
At this year’s YMCA Indoor Triathlon competition, the top three men overall were Ian McGrew (10.62 miles), Brandon Roman (10.53), and Massimo Cordella (10.45). This was Roman’s third year in a row taking second place. The top women were Kelly Fitzgerald (8.95), Lydia Dillon (8.94), and Stephanie Baird (8.87). Only 0.08 of a mile or 140 yards separated the top three women. It was just 52 feet that separated Fitzgerald and Dillon. All three were in separate heats, meaning it was just internal motivation driving them. It was nice to see Fitzgerald’s hard work pay off as she moved up from third in 2024, second in 2025, and the top spot in 2026! The team winners were Team Studt, composed of Kari Studt, Helene Maneri, and Barbara Baunfeld (7.42).
I also competed as part of my rehab from my left hip and a right knee replacement. It felt good to be there, and I’m looking forward to more. My age-group competitors should be wary because, as Satchel Paige once quipped, “Don’t look back; something might be gaining on you”—right, Phil C?
Age-group winners were: 20s: Taylor Remington (6.84) 30s: John Hay (9.88) and Christina Tinti (8.07) 40s: Julian Spring (8.76) and Clara Diamond (8.20) 50s: Bill Shashaty (9.59) and Nicola McNeil (8.74) 60s: Mike Kristofik (9.37) and Kim Scott (8.64) 70s: Richard Miller (8.59).
There were also awards for individuals achieving the most distance in each discipline: Swim: Art Boyko (47.5 laps), Lydia Dillon (39 laps) Bike: Ian McGrew (7.05 miles), Kelly Fitzgerald (6.13 miles) Run: Massimo Cordella (40 laps), Lydia Dillon (37 laps).
The youngest finisher was Lily Hynes, age 16 (7.60 miles), and the oldest competitor was Richard Miller, age 72 (8.59 miles).
Congratulations to the YMCA’s Indoor Triathlon committee for organizing a fun and challenging event for the community. All proceeds from this event benefit the YMCA Strong Kids Fund.
As we look forward to the future, it’s exciting to note upcoming fitness events, such as the UCSPCA Winery Run and various community races. These events foster a sense of camaraderie and bring people of all ages together for fun and fitness.
UCSPCA Winery Run (May 9)— Update
In my last column, I featured one of the UCSPCA shelter dogs, a 108 lb blind Akita named Bernard. At the end of February, Bernard was adopted. A volunteer from the shelter, who was his shelter “soulmate,” sent me this update about how he is doing with his new adopted “furever” family.
“Sometimes there’s just an extra-special animal at a shelter that you really get attached to. Bernard was that dog for me. I remember the first time I saw him. He had something special from day one. The more time I spent with him, the more I fell in love with him. I was happy to drive him anywhere he needed to go. He would climb into the back seat and enjoy his ride.
He was amazing, meeting everyone. Once he had his eyes removed and no longer had the cone on, he acted like a puppy, just wanting love from everyone. He will always hold a special place in my heart. I’m extremely grateful to his new family for giving him a home. He deserves the best and definitely looks like he’s found a great home.”
For more information, registration, or to donate, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Gardiner/BrunswickWineryRunForUCSPCA (runsignup.com in Bing).
Conclusion
As we continue to explore opportunities for health and well-being, the YMCA stands out as a vital community hub. With its diverse programs tailored for all ages, from toddlers to seniors, it fosters a supportive environment for everyone. Whether you are an experienced athlete or just beginning your fitness journey, the YMCA has something to offer. Mark your calendars for upcoming events, and remember that staying active is not only about personal health but also about embracing a vibrant community.
By participating in local events, engaging in group activities, or simply taking advantage of the resources available at the YMCA, you’ll discover the power of community wellness in enhancing your fitness journey. Let’s get moving and make a difference together!
Upcoming Races
April 18: The 29th YMCA Kids Classic at Dietz Memorial Stadium in Kingston, NY. The Kids Classic is a track meet for children ages 2–10. Event distances range from 50 meters to a mile, based on age/grade. Register by March 22 to receive a shirt. Registration: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Kingston/26thAnnualYMCAKidsClassic (runsignup.com in Bing).
April 26: Kiwanis Kingston Classic, Rondout Waterfront 10K, 5K, and 1.5-mile Donut Run. Register: https://www.zippy-reg.com/online_reg/index.php?e=2422 (zippy-reg.com in Bing).
By exploring our local fitness scene and utilizing community resources, every step can lead to a healthier future. Join the YMCA and other local organizations in paving the way to a fitter, healthier community.
Steve Schallenkamp has been actively involved in area running circles since 1966 as a runner, race director, volunteer, and coach. He is a member of the Onteora Runners Club and serves as president of the Shawangunk Runners Club.
