To help Bostonians beat the late-winter blues, Mayor Thomas M. Menino joined residents and staff at the Roxbury YMCA over the weekend to kick off four weeks of free classes at YMCA locations across the City. The partnership is part of Boston Moves for Health, Mayor Menino’s initiative to improve the health and wellness of Boston residents.
Throughout the month of March, the YMCA of Greater Boston will support two dozen free classes – everything from boxing to Zumba, and even a class for seniors. Anyone can participate, and Y membership is not required. For a complete schedule of classes, visit ymcaboston.org/bostonmoves.
“Boston Moves for Health is about making sure Boston residents have easy, affordable ways to fit some physical activity into their day, because we know how important it is to leading a healthy lifestyle,” Mayor Menino said. “With two dozen classes on the calendar, I’m sure everyone can find something they’ll enjoy.”
“Healthy living is a key component of the YMCA’s mission to strengthen communities,” said Y president and CEO Kevin Washington. “We are proud to be a partner of Boston Moves and we join with Mayor Menino to invite Bostonians of every age and ability to get moving in March.”
The Mayor thanked the YMCA of Greater Boston for contributing to Boston Moves for Health, and for their continued partnership with the Boston Public Health Commission through a $4.6 million REACH grant to tackle obesity and hypertension, especially among communities of color in Boston. The Y will work with the city to expand access to after-school and out-of-school physical activity programs for youth. Read more about the REACH grant here.
“Last April, I challenged the city to move ten million miles together as part of Boston Moves for Health, and organizations like the Y have stepped up to provide opportunities for residents that are affordable and close to home,” Mayor Menino said. “The YMCAs have been a big contributor to our goal.”