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Reap the benefits of the YMCA with these simple steps
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The YMCA is more than just a gym—they’re a leading nonprofit committed to connecting people to their purpose, potential, and each other. A YMCA membership offers access to welcoming fitness facilities, a range of health and wellness programs, sports programs for kids and adults, licensed childcare services, camp programs, swim lessons, volunteer opportunities, and so much more. Keep reading to learn how to become a member of your local YMCA.
Steps
Section 1 of 1:
How to Sign Up for a YMCA Membership
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Visit your local YMCA or explore their website to learn about membership plans and available facilities and programs. A majority of Ys offer prospective members guided tours. Services vary from one YMCA to another, so be sure to ask about programs of special interest to you.
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Decide what membership option is best for you. YMCA membership plans are designed to fit different needs – from individual and family memberships to senior and teen rates, as well as financial assistance options. Depending on the YMCA and plan you choose, members enjoy access to:
- Fitness centers with free weights, exercise machines, activity courts, and more.
- Pool access, with the option of swimming lessons and other water safety programs.
- For members with children, licensed childcare services, including free child watch, before and after-school programs, and day camp and youth sports offerings may also be available.
- Specialty programs ranging from CPR instruction to classes on nutrition and volunteer opportunities.
- Most Ys also offer access to the Nationwide Membership Program, where you can access hundreds of participating Y locations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico at no additional cost. Be sure to ask about this during the registration process.
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Complete the membership registration process. Depending on the Y, registration can be completed online or in person. Registration includes completing supporting documentation with basic information like your name, address, and other contact details, as well as reviewing and signing required membership policies and agreements.
- Be sure to bring a government-issued ID and any additional documentation if applying for financial assistance.
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Set up payment information. As part of the registration process, you’ll select a payment method (bank draft, credit/debit card, etc.) for your membership plan. Most Ys offer a monthly draft, making membership easy to maintain.
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5Register for additional programs. As a member, you’ll have access to a variety of programs and services at the Y—from swim lessons and youth sports to fitness classes and personal training. Members can usually register for these additional programs online or in person at the member services desk. Some programs are included with your membership and others require an additional fee.
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6Inquire about financial assistance. The YMCA believes that everyone should have access to Y membership and program services, regardless of their financial situation.
- To inquire about financial assistance, ask about the program when you’re inquiring about membership plans.
- If interested, an application will need to be completed, which typically includes proof of income and other details.
- Assistance is awarded based on need and available funding.
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Community Q&A
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QuestionCan a YMCA card be used worldwide?Community AnswerContact your local Y to see what the rules are of your membership. Some YMCA cards can be used virtually anywhere, but some Ys have limitations. See which category yours falls under by inquiring with your Y.
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QuestionCan I enroll monthly or is it only done on a yearly basis?Community AnswerYou can pay month-to-month if that is a preference. You will pay the one-time initiation fee and pay your assigned fee every month. Discounts are usually given if you sign up for automatic withdrawal programs to have the fee electronically drafted on a monthly basis.
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QuestionI want to join the YMCA, but my spouse does not. Will they still consider both of our incomes, or just mine?Community AnswerProof of income is not necessary unless you are trying to be eligible for programs to cut costs based on need, like financial assistance for example. If you want to join the YMCA and are an adult or young adult, look into the monthly fee associated with that category. That will be what you pay and is not income-based.
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Tips
- Once you become a member at the YMCA, you'll have to present your membership card each time you enter the facility.Thanks
- Some YMCAs offer special memberships, such as corporate memberships or foster child memberships. Reach out to your local Y to inquire about these offerings.Thanks
- As part of the nationwide membership program, Y members can use YMCA facilities across the country. Check with your local YMCA for more details.Thanks
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Article Summary
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To become a member of the YMCA, first visit your local YMCA facility to learn about membership options and available facilities and programs. If you decide to join, choose the membership plan that’s best for you, such as an adult membership or family membership. During the registration process, you’ll need to complete membership forms with your personal details, review membership policies, and will need to set up a monthly payment form. Members can also take advantage of additional programs and services, like child care, youth programs, swim lessons, personal training, CPR classes, and so much more. Ys also offer financial assistance, if needed. Learn more by contacting your local YMCA. For tips on how to apply for financial support with your YMCA membership, keep reading!
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Reader Success Stories
- "I'm a single mom of three children, and trying to get my oldest through college. The older I've gotten, the more out of shape I've become! The info provided has helped me out so much, thank you!" ..." more
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"I'm a single mom of three children, and trying to get my oldest through college. The older I've gotten, the more out of shape I've become! The info provided has helped me out so much, thank you!"
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