YMCA OF THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY
HEALTH & WELLNESS
WHERE TO BEGIN
The YMCA offers an exclusive, complimentary wellness consultation for all members, providing personalized guidance on achieving your fitness goals. During the session, you'll explore how the YMCA supports your health journey, with a focus on tailored advice. The wellness professional will showcase facilities, equipment, amenities, and free group exercise classes. The trainer will provide guidance into personalized training options and how to make the YMCA an integral part of your fitness routine. This one-on-one session empowers you with the knowledge to maximize your membership for health and fitness goals!
Schedule your consult:
The wellness center at the Chippewa Falls YMCA, Eau Claire Downtown YMCA, and Eau Claire South YMCA locations include exercise machines, stretching areas, free weights, and strength training equipment. Although specific equipment varies by location, you can achieve a complete workout in the Fitness Center by blending flexibility, strength, and endurance. Members who are 12 years and older of all levels and abilities are welcome in the Fitness Center. We encourage all new members to take advantage of our FREE Wellness Consultation! This is a great first step if you are new to exercise, getting back on track, or if you are an avid exerciser looking for a little more guidance and expertise.
GROUP EXERCISE
Group Exercise classes are a great way to explore new ways to challenge your body, get in a favorite workout, make and spend time with friends, and take part in shared accountability to wellness.
PERSONAL TRAINING
Need a little extra push? Our YMCA-certified Personal Trainers are committed to helping you improve your physical fitness, health, and overall quality of life. They will help you determine and achieve your personal fitness goals and aid in the development of your own personal program.
HEALTH INTERVENTION PROGRAMS
Pedaling for Parkinson’s helps Parkinson Disease patients develop healthy lifestyles through fitness, education, and wellness activities in a group setting. Sessions will run for 8 weeks at a time.
The Pedaling for Parkinson’s™ program is based on research indicating that forced exercise on a bicycle can reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s. In fact, participants who ride three days a week over eight weeks have shown improvement in their Parkinson’s-related symptoms by as much as 35%.
COST:
Free for all Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers. All participants will receive a 1-year family membership to the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley once the program begins.
WHEN & WHERE:
Eau Claire South YMCA:
FALL: Tuesdays & Thursdays, October 7-November 27, 2025
TIME: 9:00-10:00 AM
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA:
FALL: Tuesdays & Thursdays, September 8-October 29, 2025
TIME: 1:00-2:00 PM
Chippewa Falls YMCA:
FALL: Mondays & Wednesday, September 29-November 19, 2025
TIME: 10:30-11:30 AM
Questions:
Eau Claire South YMCA:
Please contact Haili Carlson, Healthy Living Director, at hcady@ymca-cv.org or (715) 552-4570
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA:
Please contact April Peterson, Healthy Living Coordinator, at apeterson@ymca-cv.org or (715) 839-4608
Chippewa Falls YMCA:
Please contact Solomon Abebayehu, Healthy Living & Membership Director, at soloabe@ymca-cv.org or (715) 861-2348
This is a group exercise program for people living with mild to moderate dementia and their caregivers. To participate, individuals must be able to perform simple exercises, follow verbal directions, and participate in conversation. Modeled after the LEEPS program (Language Enriched Exercise Plus Socialization), Brain and Body Fitness has been shown to improve physical fitness and mood in people living with dementia and their caregivers. It is a safe, effective, fun social program taught by qualified and trained YMCA staff. A free one-year family membership is included.
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA
Register online at www.adrcevents.org or call the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County at (715) 839-4735 or (888) 338-4636.
Fall 2025 Session
WHEN: Mondays & Wednesdays, September 8-November 26, 2025
TIME: 10:00-11:30 AM
WHERE: United Methodist Church, 337 Lake Street, Eau Claire
Chippewa Falls YMCA
For more information or to register, contact April Peterson, at apeterson@ymca-cv.org or
(715) 833-4843.
Fall 2025 Session
WHEN: Tuesdays & Thursdays, September 9-October 2, 2025
TIME: 10:00-11:30 AM
WHERE: Chippewa Falls YMCA - Group Exercise Studio
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a free 12-week program, tailored to the specific needs of cancer survivors who would like to improve their quality of life before, during, and after treatment. We offer small group sessions to connect participants to other cancer survivors looking to reclaim their lives. Our certified instructors and personal trainers have undergone specialized training in the elements of cancer, rehabilitative exercise, and supportive cancer care.
*A FREE one year family membership is included with this program.
Chippewa Falls YMCA Class Information
Fall 2025 SESSION
September 4-November 25, 2025
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:30-7:45 AM or 1:00-2:15 PM
To Register, or Ask Questions: Contact Tracey Quast at tquast@ymca-cv.org or fill out the online interest form below.
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA Class Information
Fall 2025 SESSION:
September 8-November 26, 2025
Mondays & Wednesdays
10:00-11:15 AM or 4:30-5:45 PM
Winter 2026 SESSION:
January 5-March 25, 2026
Mondays & Wednesdays
10:00-11:15 AM or 4:30-5:45 PM
To Register, or Ask Questions: Contact April Peterson at apeterson@ymca-cv.org or fill out the online interest form below.
We are celebrating YOU! Join us for our LIVESTRONG® Alumni Dinner with your family. Karl's Bar-B-Q will be providing dinner! Enjoy delicious food while you mingle, and don’t miss your chance to win exciting prizes!
WHEN: Tuesdays, September 23, 2025
TIME: 6:00-7:30 PM
WHERE: Chippewa Falls YMCA
WHO: LiveStrong Members & Family
COST: Free
Please register by September 15 to secure your spot - include the number of adults and children that will be attending.
This support group provides a safe space for current and past LIVESTRONG participants, as well as all cancer patients and survivors, to come together to gain information, share experiences, and receive support from each other.
WHEN: 1st Wednesday of the month
TIME: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
WHERE: Eau Claire Downtown YMCA | Party Room
WHO: All cancer patients and survivors
COST: Free for YMCA Members - No registration required!
This program is geared toward older adults of all fitness levels. If you have a chronic condition, such as arthritis, you may be able to gain more strength and independence. You will feel energized— physically, mentally and socially—and be surrounded by people who care about your success.
THE FACTS TELL THE STORY: Research has shown that among older adults who participate in Enhance®Fitness, health costs were lowered by close to $1,000 and 9 out of 10 people stay with the program. In addition, 99% say they would recommend the program to a friend.
The exercises are dynamic but can always be done at your pace:
• Up to 25 people in each class: we provide chairs and soft weights
• Class meets 3 times per week and focuses on flexibility, balance, strength & movement
• Fitness assessment at beginning and every 4 months
Fall 2025 Session
WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays, September 8-December 24, 2025
TIME: 10:00-11:00 AM
COST: Members: FREE | Non-Members: First 16-Week Session FREE then a YMCA membership will be required to continue additional sessions.
LOCATION: Eau Claire Downtown YMCA
REGISTRATION: Required - For more information and registration details, please contact: April Peterson (715) 839-4608 or at apeterson@ymca-cv.org or complete this online form
A specialized program at the Eau Claire Downtown YMCA for women in early recovery from substance use disorder. Sober Strong combines group exercise with supportive services to create connection and belonging while reducing post-acute withdrawal symptoms in early recovery.
Group Exercise Class - Rotating schedule
Support Meetings - Tuesdays, 11:00-11:50 AM
Recovery Coaching - By appointment with Julie
1:1 Exercise - By appointment with Julie
John Gyorfi, YMCA Instructor, is excited to lead these Weight Management Health Challenge to help educate and motivate others to focus on healthy lifestyle changes in a one-on-one setting. As one said, an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure. Making sound decision on nutrition, daily exercises, and determination sounds simple, although everyone has a unique path to success. Join this support group for community, guidance, support, and encouragement.
This is open and free to members and community promoting public health and nutritional guidance.
This challenge focuses on education and motivation to overcome weight management issues. Relationships with trained Medical Professionals are encouraged for all being that obesity is a health crisis and can be complex.
QUESTIONS OR TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT:
Call, text, or email John Gyorfi at 715-559-6102
Email WIOHcares@gmail.com
Evidence-based Health Intervention (EBHI) programs were implemented at the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley in response to changing health care trends. We deliver community-based health and wellness services in innovative new ways rooted in a common commitment to preventing and combating chronic disease. Programs available through the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley include Pedaling for Parkinson's, Brain & Body Fitness, Livestrong, EnhanceFintess, Sober Strong, and Life After LiveStrong Cancer support.
ACTIVE & AGELESS
2025 Calendar: View the full schedule here
September
WHEN: Wednesday, September 17 at 9 AM
MEET AT: Bike trail parking lot - one block down from the Cenex Station in Jim Falls and ride to Cornell and back.
Gary J. Weston will be speaking about his “fat to fit to forever story” with the help of the YMCA. He will be sharing how using the healthy living approaches he learned at the Y to help him live as long and well as possible.
WHEN: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
TIME: 11:00 AM
WHERE: Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Community Room
COST: Free
No registration required
About Gary:
Gary J. Weston worked for almost 50 years as a teacher, attorney, and nonprofit manager. Following retirement, he continued to exercise, volunteer, make presentations, and write poetry. Gary’s poetry is featured in several books, a YouTube channel, and was performed last year by a 16-person troupe in San Diego in a play called “Old, Bold & Not Yet Cold!” Gary has also recently developed a course on “The Power of Positive Aging.” Gary resides in Rice Lake with his wife Patricia, son Gregory, and two young grandchildren, and is a member of the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley.
The YMCA of the Chippewa Valley is proud to offer a variety of Active & Ageless programs committed to helping seniors maintain a healthy lifestyle and strengthen social ties. We encourage everyone to grow in the areas of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Our active adult land and water-based exercise classes promote fitness and well-being while fostering friendships and camaraderie.
SPECIALTY FITNESS PROGRAMMING
Swim the length of the Chippewa River in the pool! This lap swimming challenge is conducted at your own pace in the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley pools (Chippewa Falls YMCA, Eau Claire Downtown YMCA, and Eau Claire South YMCA). Simply track the number of laps you swim during each workout and record your distance with a lifeguard on your tracking sheet. Receive a swim cap for motivation to start and a T-Shirt at the end for bragging on your accomplishment. We want to continue to motivate each other through this challenge! You will be able to see your distance on the swimming chart located in the pool area. START DATE: March 1, 2025 END DATE: March 1, 2026 COST: $25
REGISTER:
DISTANCE INFORMATION: LENGTH: One length of the pool is 25 yards LAP: Down and back (50 yards) 1 MILE: 1,760 yards 1,760 YARDS: 70 lengths or 35 laps GOAL: Do Your Best! Just Keep Swimming!
183 Miles
Chippewa Pool: 5,890 Laps (Meter Pool)
Eau Claire Downtown Pool: 6,442 Laps (Yard Pool)
Eau Claire South Pool: 6,442 (Yard Pool)
Liftoff is a hands-on, small group session designed to help you navigate the gym with ease.
You’ll learn:
How to set up and adjust gym equipment
How to choose the right weights for your goals
Proper form for safe, effective workouts
How to create a balanced workout plan that works for you
WHEN: Monday, September 22, 2025
TIME: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHERE: Eau Claire Downtown YMCA
WHO: YMCA Members only
Spots are limited — secure yours today! REGISTER HERE
The Power Pedalers will be back this Summer! This is a FREE outdoor cycling club open to EVERYONE, not just YMCA Members. The rides locations, dates, and times are below.
Bring the Y to you, wherever you are. Whether it's a current Y favorite or something new to you, Y360 matches your lifestyle with a growing library of online videos for you and your family. Livestreams and on-demand classes/content are available free for current YMCA Members.
The YMCA of the Chippewa Valley offers group exercise classes on land as well as in the water. Each week, several group exercise water classes are held at the Y's two membership locations. These water classes are included with your Y membership! See our schedules below or download our mobile app for class days and times.
Chippewa Falls YMCA Class Offerings
Deep Water: This is a great class for a head-to-toe workout without ever touching the ground! Participants wear a belt that provides support and allows them to work with the worry of staying afloat. Barbells, hand paddles, and noodles may be used. Great for cardio and toning. No swimming experience necessary but should be comfortable in deep water.
Shallow Water: Use the water’s resistance in this low to moderate aquatic workout. A great class for individuals with arthritis and joint pain. Barbells, noodles, and kickboards may be used. Wonderful social atmosphere to top it off!
Aquamotion: Set to music, this fun and energetic class is meant for all ages. A creative combination of aerobics and toning all done in the shallow end of the pool.
Shallow Water Yoga: - In this class we explore standing yoga postures in the shallow end of our YMCA pool to get a low impact, full body workout that helps to improve your strength, balance and range of motion.
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA Class Offerings
Hydro Aerobics (Ages 14 +): A 45 - 50 minute cardiovascular workout with minimal impact on joints. This class uses water resistance to increase your heart rate and strengthen your muscles. Swimming skills are not required, however, participants must be comfortable in the deep water.
Joint Efforts (Ages 40+): A shallow water, 45-minute workout for individuals with arthritis. The focus is on activities of daily living, walking, gentle stretching, flexing, extension, and range-of-motion. Equipment such as barbells and gloves may be used as well.
Aqua Fit (Ages 14+): A 45 - 50 minute cardiovascular workout with minimal impact on joints. This class uses water resistance to increase your heart rate and strengthen your muscles. It combines shallow water and deep water exercises for an overall body work out.
Eau Claire South YMCA Class Offerings
Water Aerobics: Water aerobics consists of a variety of different exercises like water walking, weight work, leg lifts, and kickboard moves. Low impact class designed for taking the stress off muscles and joints.
Water Cross Fit: A low impact pool workout that is at your own pace and dependent on how hard or light one pushes themselves. Legs, arms, shoulders, and core will benefit. Focus is on primary muscle groups and joints.
Adult Tri/Lap
Our Lap/Tri League offers coach and self-guided workouts per lane for different abilities. A coach will facilitate practice, help with time sets, technique instruction and offer one-on-one coaching for specific drills to promote swimming efficiency and injury prevention
Senior Swim Workshop | Eau Claire South YMCA
Are you interested in exploring lap swimming or looking to make your swimming more efficient? Join Randy Mundt for our Senior Lap Swim Workshop offered monthly!
In a small group format, Randy will give you feedback on your technique and guide you to improve your swimming in a variety of strokes. Front crawl, backstroke, breaststroke, and sidestroke will all be discussed as Randy assists you on your swimming journey. He will also recommend tools and equipment, in addition to giving direction on planning and making workouts.
Open to anyone over the age of 30 who wants to lap swim better! The only tools you’ll need are a swimsuit and goggles!
WORKSHOP ARE OFFERED MONTHLY ON
WHEN: Thursdays, from 10:00-10:45 AM.
COST: Members: $36 | Non-Members: $45
Questions? Contact Corey M. at (715) 861-6875 or cmukai@ymca-cv.org
Specialty fitness programs are committed to helping individuals begin, maintain, or advance their healthy lifestyle and strengthen social ties. We encourage everyone to grow in the areas of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
YOUTH & TEEN FITNESS
The YMCA of the Chippewa Valley Barracudas Swim Team combines YMCA and USA year-round competitive swimming and diving programs in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, and the surrounding area. We promote the long-term development of athletes by offering skill instruction, training focused on improving fitness levels, and appropriate social interaction in a caring, respectful, and encouraging environment. More than 200 student-athletes learn and train at multiple locations: Eau Claire Downtown YMCA, Chippewa Falls YMCA, Chippewa Falls Middle School, and Eau Claire Memorial High School. The YMCA Swim Team welcomes swimmers ages 5 to 19 and all ability levels!
Those 12 years old and up are welcome to use the equipment in the fitness centers at both locations. We offer individualized orientations that help each child safely and appropriately use the equipment so that they can make the most of their time using the fitness center.
Please contact Healthy Living Director for more information.
Chippewa Falls YMCA - Solomon Abebayehu
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Missy Reece
The program is designed to build self-confidence and athletic fundamentals such as strength, conditioning, endurance, speed, and change direction with a focus on injury prevention. Youth Performance Training is great for all ability levels as we cater to each person's strengths and weaknesses. This program can be general or sports-specific. We offer individual, partner, and small group options.
Please contact Healthy Living Director for more information.
Chippewa Falls YMCA - Solomon Abebayehu
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Missy Reece
Packages:
The programs listed below are typically offered during specific seasons but are not currently available for registration.
SUMMER SEASONAL OFFERINGS:
Youth & Teen Powerlifting | Ages 10-18 | CF & EC
Strength & Conditioning | Ages 10-13 | CF & EC
Summer Fitness U | Ages 10-13 | CF
Swim Strong Academy | Ages 11-14 | CF
Youth & Teen programs are committed to helping the youth of the Chippewa Valley begin, maintain, or advance their healthy lifestyle and strengthen social ties. We encourage everyone to grow in the areas of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
PRIVATE TRAINING STUDIO
The Private Fitness Studio at the Eau Claire Downtown YMCA is is located in Racquetball Court 6. Any YMCA member can reserve a 50-minute session to work out in the Private Fitness Studio. YMCA members under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Max capacity is 4 individuals.
Equipment available in the studio: Dumbbells (2-30 lb sets), Risers and Platforms, Bosu Balls, Stability Balls, Medicine Balls, Foam Rollers, Elastic Tubing, Mats, Indoor Cycling Bikes, and Yoga equipment including Bolsters, Blocks, Straps, and Blankets!
Bring a streaming device that can connect to the 65” Smart TV in the Private Fitness Studio. You’ll have access to hundreds of workouts from YMCA360, YouTube, other free fitness channels, or your own fitness subscription service. Connecting is easy! Instructions to connect your device are available in the Private Fitness Studio. If you don’t have a streaming device, you can still access hundreds of workouts on the Smart TV free fitness channel.
Reservations are required and can be made below. Stop by Member Services to check in for your reservation time. All members will be required to check-in, clean and disinfect equipment, and follow all policies of the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley.
Read our reservations instructions and then click here to get started
Who do I contact for more information?
Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Missy Reece, Healthy Living Director
The Functional Training Studio at the Chippewa Falls YMCA is is located in Personal Training Studios near the Racquetball Courts. Any YMCA member can reserve a 60-minute session to work out in the Functional Training Studio. YMCA members under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Max capacity is 6 individuals.
Equipment available in the studio: 15-25lb medicine balls, Foam rollers, Weightlifting chain, Resistance bands- small to large and varying in weight, Tube bands- lighter to heavy, Hip circle bands- small to large, Bosu ball, Battle rope, Push sled, Plyometric box- 16in-24in, Adjustable step-up platforms, Yoga balls and mats, Kettlebells- 18lb-53lb, Flat and Adjustable benches, Squat rack with landmine attachment, dip attachment, and pull-up bar, Variety of weight for dumbbells and barbells, Gymnastic rings, TRX suspension straps, Bumper and steel plates, Deadlift platform with band attachment capability, Roku TV with My Zone capability Whiteboard, & Bluetooth speaker.
Bring a streaming device that can connect to the 65” Smart TV in the Private Fitness Studio. You’ll have access to hundreds of workouts from YMCA360, YouTube, other free fitness channels, or your own fitness subscription service. Connecting is easy! Instructions to connect your device are available in the Private Fitness Studio. If you don’t have a streaming device, you can still access hundreds of workouts on the Smart TV free fitness channel.
Reservations are required and can be made below. Stop by Member Services to check in for your reservation time. All members will be required to check-in, clean and disinfect equipment, and follow all policies of the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley.
Who do I contact for more information?
Chippewa Falls YMCA - Solomon Abebayehu, Membership & Healthy Living Director
A Private Training Studio is a private space at the YMCA that members can reserve to workout in. Whether you feel more comfortable in a private space, need access to equipment, or don’t have the space to workout at home, this space is for you!
YMCA SPA
EAU CLAIRE DOWNTOWN YMCA SPA HOURS:
Monday-Friday
7:30 AM-8:15 PM
Saturday
6:00 AM-5:15 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM-6:15 PM
Please respect capacity limits in each area:
Hot Tub: 7 people
Sauna: 5 people
Steam Room: 5 people
The Eau Claire Downtown YMCA Spa area includes a hot tub, steam room, and sauna.
You can access this area through our locker rooms. Go through the pool area and enter the spa door near the shallow end of the large pool.
ADULTS ONLY - Must be 18 to enter.
Swimwear or appropriate clothing must be worn at all times.
Bring your own towel.
Showering is required before entering the hot tub.
There is NO lifeguard on duty. Use hot tub at own risk.
No food or glass is allowed in the SPA area.
Staff may walk through based on their duties.
Only available during open pool hours – if the pool closes, the spa closes – download our YMCA app to make sure you’re notified of any closures
EAU CLAIRE SOUTH YMCA SPA HOURS:
Monday-Friday
5:00 AM-8:15 PM
Saturday-Sunday
7:00 AM-6:15 PM
Please respect capacity limits in each area:
Hot Tub: 7 people
The Eau Claire South YMCA Spa area includes a hot tub and sauna.
Our spa area is located in our pool area.
ADULTS ONLY - Must be 16 to use.
Swimwear or appropriate clothing must be worn at all times.
Bring your own towel.
Showering is required before entering.
There is NO lifeguard on duty. Use hot tub at own risk.
Please limit your sauna sessions to a maximum of 15 minutes.
No food or glass is allowed in the SPA area.
DO NOT pour water on heating units.
The Spa Area is available during open pool hours – if the pool closes, the spa closes – download our YMCA app to make sure you’re notified of any closures.
EAU CLAIRE SOUTH YMCA SPA HOURS:
Monday-Friday
4:30 AM-10:00 PM
The Menomonie East YMCA Spa area includes a sauna.
Our sauna area is located in our men's & women's locker rooms.
ADULTS ONLY - Must be 16 to use.
Swimwear or appropriate clothing must be worn at all times.
Bring your own towel.
No food or glass is allowed in the SPA area.
DO NOT pour water on heating units.
The Spa Area is available during open hours – if the spa closes – download our YMCA app to make sure you’re notified of any closures.
There are spa areas available at the Eau Claire Downtown YMCA & Eau Claire South YMCA.
Click below to learn more about this service.
BLOOD DRIVES
When: Friday, September 19, 2025
Where: Eau Claire Downtown YMCA - Nelson Gym
Time: 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Appointments Available & Walk-in's Accepted
When: Friday, October 24, 2025
Where: Chippewa Falls YMCA - Conference Room
Time: 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Appointments Available & Walk-in's Accepted
When: Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Where: Chippewa Falls YMCA - Conference Room
Time: 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Appointments Available & Walk-in's Accepted