Ann Arbor YMCA
Group Exercise FAQ
A place where we can connect
At the Y, we’re committed to helping you live a healthier, stronger life. That’s why we’ve removed the paywall barrier requiring our members to pay additional fees for group exercise classes.
A new addition to your membership
We’re so much more than a gym! Our Group Exercise classes offer something for everyone. If you ever find yourself getting bored with your routine, check out a class included in your membership. The Y is yours to explore, enjoy, and make your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is changing with the group exercise model?
Beginning on Monday, December 19th, 2022, all group exercise programs at the Ann Arbor YMCA will be complimentary to your Y membership. Members will be able to reserve space ahead of time to guarantee their spot in the class or show up on the spot to drop-in to a new program!
Should I reserve my space or drop in?
It is strongly recommended (though not required) to reserve space ahead of time in classes with capacity restraints (Cycling, TRX, Iyengar) due to the limited equipment in those classes.
Reserving your space allows you to receive real-time updates about the class (cancellations, changes, etc), add the class to your digital calendar and guarantees that you’ll have a spot when you arrive. While we don’t expect to reach maximum capacity in most of our classes, drop-in participants will be turned away if the class has reached its capacity.
Where can I see the group exercise schedule?
Rather than having registration periods every 7 weeks, our group exercise schedule will exist as a calendar of programs on an ongoing basis. The ongoing group exercise schedule can be found on our group scheduling page.
How do I reserve my space in a class?
View our group exercise schedule online and select “sign up” *. You will then need to login to your existing online account OR follow the prompts to create a new account using the email address or phone number on file at the Ann Arbor YMCA.
*Note: you are only able to begin reserving space exactly 7 days prior to the time the class meets.
For more complete registration instructions, a comprehensive guide can be found here.
A video guide on reserving space in a program online can be found here.
In Q1 of 2023 the Ann Arbor Y will provide its own ios/android application allowing members to reserve their spaces and view the group exercise calendar quickly!
When can I first reserve my space in a group exercise class?
You can reserve your space in a group exercise class exactly 7 days prior to the time the class meets.
What is the reservation cancellation policy?
If you reserve a class and can not attend, please cancel at least 2 hours prior to the start of class. This can be done by locating your original confirmation email and clicking on the blue cancellation link or logging into your account and clicking on the appointments tab. (This process will be much easier when we receive the new member app!) You can also cancel by calling the front desk or emailing jbaca@annarborymca.org.
If you fail to cancel prior to 2 hours and do not show up for the class, you are considered a no show. If you no show 3 times in 14 days, you will not be allowed to make any reservations for 7 days.
While it would be great if you cancel any of your class reservations if you are unable to attend, the no-show policy only applies to cycling and TRX classes
What classes still require registration?
How early should I arrive for class?
Depending on the class, 10 minutes is fine, however for our more popular classes, you may want to be there 15 minutes early to choose your ‘spot.’
What if a class is full when I arrive?
If you can’t get into the class you came for because it was full, we encourage you to try some of the other classes we have going on at the same time. Additionally, there are many activities including the Wellness Floor, gymnasium, pools, and track where you can get your own workout.
In Q1 of 2023 the Ann Arbor Y will provide its own ios/android application allowing members to select various workouts uploaded by our team OR log their own customized workout!
What happens if I reserve space and don't show up for the class?
We ask that if you have reserved a space in a class and cannot attend, you cancel your reservation online or by contacting the front desk at least two hours prior to the class start time. A member who does not show for 3 reserved classes in a 1-week span will enter a probationary period where they cannot reserve spaces in classes for 1 week.
Can I try any of the classes on the schedule? What if they are too hard?
We have designed most of our classes to suit the needs of most participants from beginner to advanced. If a class is specifically for advanced students, it will be indicated in the class description and class name. Feel free to ask the instructor if the class is appropriate for you!
Can someone help me choose the right class to go to?
Absolutely! Any personal trainer or Healthy Living team member can help you choose the perfect classes for you based on your interests and goals. If you need more in-depth conversations or help regarding which class is best for you, please feel free to contact the Director of Healthy Living, Jen Baca, at jbaca(at)annarborymca.org.