YMCA of Southern Maine
For a Better Us.™
Finding Strength & Connection in the Water
Eric
At 75, Eric lives an active and independent life. A widower who lives alone, he’s built a lifelong habit of staying fit — and he’s found a true home for that commitment at the YMCA of Southern Maine.
“I’ve always believed in taking care of myself,” Eric says. “I like structure — I want to make sure every part of my body gets exercised.” Aqua Fitness at the Y gives him exactly that: a safe, balanced workout that keeps him moving without risk of injury. Having had joint replacements in the past, he appreciates that water exercise allows him to stay strong while protecting
his body.
Eric is a familiar face at the Northern York County Branch pools. “If I could, I’d be here five days a week,” he laughs. “The Y is part of my daily schedule. It’s very important to me.”
But for Eric, the benefits go far beyond fitness. As a crossing guard, he interacts with children everyday — but Aqua Fitness gives him something different: a community of adults his own age. “I live alone, so I really enjoy coming in, seeing people, talking with friends. Everyone at The Y is great. I feel like I’m part
of something. It is a true community”.
He especially enjoys instructor Meg’s Aqua Arthritis, Mindful Aqua Fit, and Deep-Water Aqua Fitness classes which he describes as fun, engaging, and motivating. “Meg makes it fun. Everyone encourages each other. You see someone swimming a few laps before class, and you think — maybe I should do that too.” Eric did just that, after seeing his classmate swimming laps before class, Eric started doing the same.
The sense of encouragement and connection is what keeps Eric coming back. “People know my name when I walk in the door,” he says. “I feel at home here. I’d really miss that connection if I didn’t have it, and I am not sure what I would do without it.”
For Eric and many others, Aqua Fitness isn’t just a workout — it’s a key part of health, routine, and sense of belonging for our community. Aquatics Programs at the YMCA of Southern Maine promote a full-bodied wellness experience that includes safety, overall well-being, and connection.
Thanks to generous donors, Aqua classes are available to all Y members, regardless of their ability to pay the full registration fee.
Stories like Eric’s are possible because the Y believes that every individual and family deserves access to opportunities that serve to strengthen their bodies and minds. This belief stands firmly as a tenant of the YMCA’s mission thanks to the supporters who invest each year to secure it.
