Meet Anthony & Joey: A Father-Son Duo on a Wellness Journey, Strengthening Their Bond at the YMCA
By Jen Schmaltz
Anthony and his son Joey were no strangers to fitness. Before the pandemic, they had been members of the YMCA of Niagara in Grimsby. Still, like many others, their routine was interrupted when the world came to a standstill. With the reopening of the YMCA post-COVID, Anthony and Joey saw an opportunity to reignite their health and fitness journey together.
Finding the Right Fit: The YMCA Difference
Anthony had previously tried working out at other gyms in his youth, drawn by the affordability and ease. However, the convenience of a gym nearby made all the difference. The YMCA was just a 6-8 minute bike ride away, making it the perfect choice for the duo. Whether it was sunny or rainy, Anthony and Joey would hop on their bikes and head to the Y, with biking becoming a part of their warm-up routine. Even when the bike was out of commission, or the weather was extreme, they were determined to drive to the Y to ensure they got their workout.
An Accountability Partnership: Strengthening the Father-Son Bond
The real magic happened when Anthony and Joey decided to work out together. They became accountability partners, pushing and encouraging each other to stay consistent. This partnership strengthened their bond and helped them stick to a routine like never before. Joey, now 11, initially needed his dad’s help with the equipment, but as time passed, he became more independent in the gym. Their fitness routine, which they adapted and customized with the help of an app, became a shared passion that brought them closer together.
The Impact of Community: Nic, The YMCA Staff Member
The YMCA of Niagara isn’t just a gym; it’s a community, which became especially clear when Nic, a YMCA staff member and personal trainer, noticed Anthony and Joey’s regular presence. Nic’s genuine friendliness and welcoming attitude made the gym feel like a second home for the pair. Nic would spot them during workouts, offer advice, and even engage in friendly banter—he affectionately called Joey “Yeoj,” Joey spelled backwards.
The sense of community extended beyond the gym as Anthony and Joey began recognizing familiar faces around town, further deepening their connection to the Y. Nic played a crucial role in fostering this community spirit, making the gym a social and enjoyable place rather than just a chore.
Going Beyond Fitness: A Commitment to Wellness and Mental Health
Anthony and Joey’s commitment to their fitness routine has a ripple effect on other areas of their lives. Joey’s confidence has grown, and he’s now setting future goals, like following in Dad’s footsteps and playing football in high school. The consistency they’ve built at the Y has translated into other activities, such as summer bike rides and coaching soccer, contributing to Joey’s overall physical and mental well-being.
The YMCA: A Safe and Welcoming Space for All
When asked to describe the YMCA to someone considering joining, Anthony and Joey emphasize the sense of community and safety. It’s a place where everyone is welcome, and no one feels out of place. For them, life without the Y would mean missing workouts and lost opportunities for father-son bonding and personal growth.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future Fueled by Consistency
As Joey looks forward to pursuing his dream of making the high school football team and continuing his fitness journey, the foundation built at the YMCA of Niagara plays a crucial role.
The consistency and support offered by the Y, mainly through the encouragement of dedicated staff like Nic, have fostered Joey’s physical growth and deepened the bond between him and his father, Anthony. Nic’s approachable nature and genuine support exemplify the positive impact that a strong community and personalized guidance can have on one’s fitness journey, making the YMCA more than just a place to work out but a place to build lasting connections and achieve long-term wellness.
Joey suggests to those contemplating a YMCA membership: “Do it. Nic is the second coolest guy ever—after Dad, of course.”
