By Brenda Maguire
CORRESPONDENT
NEW BRITAIN — The New Britain-Berlin YMCA at 50 High St. in New Britain has rearranged its facility to open up a room for fitness classes.
“Everybody is very excited for this dedicated space,” said Tammy Valk, membership director. “It’s been a long time coming.”
The space that was once the weight room is now a 1,040-square-foot fitness studio. The room includes a new stereo system and mirrors lining the walls.
“It’s more spacious,” said Nancy Moorad after her senior fitness class Thursday. “I love the mirrors. I love the fact that we can see each other.”
To make space for the room, the YMCA rearranged the placement of the babysitting room, nautilus room, cardio center and free weight room. The equipment was moved by members and volunteers.
“We’re just utilizing the space differently,” Valk said.
It took the YMCA about a month or two to rearrange the space. They had to install new carpet in some areas and install new electrical systems as well. The renovation cost about $15,000.
The YMCA will be holding body blast, senior fitness class, middle school strength training, yoga and karate classes in the space.
The Y will be adding kickboxing, pilates, indoor cycling and boot camp classes that were previously not offered.
Before the room was opened, members had to take classes in the basketball gym, a non-air conditioned space, which was often shared, creating a crowded atmosphere.
For more information go to http://nbymca.org/, or call (860) 229-3787.
Brenda Pantano 