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The Y Can Be Life Changing
By Lake County YMCA
A few years ago Kristy Varsetti was like most Americans struggling to manage their work, life and health. What makes Kristy different is that she decided to take control and change her life.
“My neighbor finally talked me into going to a WeightWatchers meeting with her. That was the beginning… the push I needed to join the local Y in Madison,” said Kristy.
Two and a half years later, and 100 pounds lighter, Kristy still struggles on some days but has a whole new outlook on life. (Pictured: Left, Kristy in 2009 and Kristy today.)
“The hardest thing at first was just getting through the door. Now I don’t even want to miss one day. I have made so many friends that encourage me and support me to keep going – Y staff too. I couldn’t have done it without them,” she added.
Kristy started with small goals like trying a kickboxing class, then moved on to Zumba, Spinning, Total Body classes, weight lifting, and water aerobics classes. She considers the quarterly class schedule her bible to getting (and staying) fit.
“When I broke my ankle last year, it was so hard to stop working out. But the Y was there with options, so I took a water aerobics class and loved every minute of it. It was great to keep training my body while I healed. Now I do some kind of activity every day. Whether it’s a class at the Y, hiking or bicycling,” commented Kristy.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one-third of U.S. adults are obese (38%) and approximately 17% (2.5 million) children and adolescents aged 2-19 years are obese. During the past 20 years, there has been a dramatic increase in obesity and rates remain high. In 2010, no state had a prevalence of obesity less than 20%!
But being healthy means more than just being physically active. The Y is a place where anyone can work towards a balanced lifestyle by challenging oneself to learn a new skill, meet new friends or just spend time with loved ones in a family-centered activity.
“At the Y it’s not so much about the activities you choose, but about the benefit of living healthier and giving back,” Kristy said. “I wouldn’t have been able to make this life transformation without the financial assistance I received. It is wonderful to know that the community gives back so that others like myself are able to enjoy all the Y has to offer at an affordable price.”
The Lake County YMCA supports individuals, families and children through its scholarship financial assistance program funded solely by the United Way and generous donations from the Lake County community.
Anyone unable to afford the Y may apply for assistance. Contact your local YMCA branch for more information or visit them online at www.lakecountyymca.org.
Kristy’s advice for others:
“All my life I searched for motivation. Start with small goals. You have to want it and can do anything you put your mind to. You CAN reach your goals and see results! The Y has so much to offer – you just have to go there and find it.”
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