Winston Family YMCA

Carolyn Simon 2 months ago

I want to publicly recognize Heather, a swim instructor at the Winston Family YMCA for the way she handled a difficult situation in the women’s locker room. A group of black children had just finished swim practice and were talking in the shower area — the kind of normal, ordinary noise that echoes and carries in that space. They weren’t being disruptive or disrespectful. However, another patron began speaking to them in a way that felt targeted and disrespectful, telling them to be quiet and pushing for them to leave the space entirely, as they didn’t belong because they weren’t “women”. This is a public ladies room where all are welcome. No one else in the locker room had an issue with the noise. There were several witnesses to how this unfolded. Heather stepped in and handled it perfectly. She calmly addressed the situation, made clear that all the children were welcome and belonged in that space, and did it without escalating. It was genuinely impressive to watch someone de-escalate a tense, uncomfortable moment with that much grace. As a member here, this is exactly the kind of staff that makes a facility feel safe for everyone. Every family — and especially black families,

Callum Lance Edited 3 months ago

I had my first workout here in years. I came as a guest a decade or so ago. I’ve been a planet fitness member for that whole decade. A new location opened a year ago and I do love it, however I’ve been wanting more from my workouts as far as post workout amenities other than massage chairs. I was wanting to hit the pool after training, and then sauna/steam room which I did today, and it was awesome. Would definitely give 5 stars, my only complaint is that the weight training machines could use some expanding. There are plenty of cardio machines, maybe too many. I personally feel like more machines/cables could be added. I definitely had to wait for a few machines today, I am definitely curious what the after work rush will be like. But it’s not the end of the world. Overall a great facility. **UPDATE** Overall it is a great location and has good amenities. However it can be hard to use the pools as they use them for a lot of other things like swim lessons, camps, third party therapy sessions, etc. The men’s locker room definitely could use some TLC. The shower curtains are way too small/short and you have essentially no privacy. Not everyone is comfortable having the whole locker

Patrice Benshushan 3 months ago

This is the largest YMCA I have ever seen. It's gorgeous. The experience was all positive from the time I walked in the door up to and including my training session I had today. A wonderful gym, 2 pools one which is a warming pool, personal trainer, a little cafe and it's just beautifully positioned right along the St. John's River so the views are spectacular. VERY clean and charming. Thank you.

jack bee 5 months ago

Good place to workout. I especially like the elliptical machines facing the river and the third floor track. They also have a lot of good classes. The aqua fitness class is great. And the recovery room with massage chair and the cryo chairs are good The recovery chairs do cost extra though. but it's worth it.

CEO RobT: Robert JD Trego 8 months ago

From the magnificent view of the StJohns river to the heart warming welcoming staff and amazing volunteers the Winston YMCA is the place to get fit, have fun, and stay healthy. A wonderfully designed facility from the indoor pool to the massage chairs, well spaced locker rooms and large weight room this location is the best gym in riverside and downtown! A warm thank to Alexis for her smile and always kind greeting. You guys are amazing!