By Robin GOLDSWORTHY

It’s a New Year and, for many, a time for a “New You.” That new you may mean losing weight, eating better and exercising more. The local Ys are ready to help and on Saturday they opened their doors to showcase the many programs they offer.

At the Crescenta-Cañada Y, visitors found new equipment, new classes and new instructors, proving the Y has something for just about everyone, from toddlers to seniors. In the former location of the patio room, just off the kitchen, new Pilates equipment is ready for those wanting to build their core. Arpi Karapetyan oversees the Pilates program and says her instructors are ready to help people with their health goals.

“We want to improve their overall well-being, which helps in all aspects – whether, physical, mental or spiritual,” she said. “We’re able to work with everyone, from those highly trained to novices.”

Each session lasts 50 minutes and Karapetyan recommended that people gradually introduce (or reintroduce) Pilates – or any exercise regimen – into their routine.

The cardio center also boasts new equipment and a special area set aside for Peloton machines. The Peloton machines offer motivation via an independent video screen that each user can access.

Heading to the gym area, sports coordinator Noah Bernstein confirmed that indeed youth basketball is still the number one draw though pickleball is quickly gaining in popularity.

“Pickleball generates community,” said Bernstein. “People of all ages play together. After they sign in and wait for their turn on the court, they’ll chat with each other.”

A bonus is that pickleball is free to La Cañada residents, said Lori Durbin, director of Membership and Healthy Living. Folks just have to show their proof of residency to access the court.

Many of the longtime programs that local residents have enjoyed are still available, too. For example, the Crescenta-Cañada Y has racquetball courts and aquatic and yoga classes available.

“Yoga classes are very popular,” Durbin said.

Strength training is also very popular. Paige Pearson has been with the Y for more than four years – including the COVID years. Her training class begins at 6 a.m. – perfect for the early risers.

“I’m looking forward to new people coming in,” she said. “It’s important that people know that strength training is for everyone, no matter their level.”

Upstairs, down the hall from the yoga studios, are group exercise rooms. Ashley Fernandez and Joanne Pingry are two instructors; the two teach several classes at the facility including “body pump” and high-intensity interval training.

“People should come to class, ready to take part at their own pace,” said Fernandez. “Not only will they benefit from the class, but they’ll be more likely to return.”

Pingry also said that the social aspect of the classes she teaches has had lifelong effects.

“I’ve seen people become friends for life,” she said.

Not forgetting the importance of mental health and well-being, the Y has brought chaplain Cameron Rose on board. Rose oversees the on-site chapel and monthly non-denominational religious services as well as being available to both members and staff.

In addition to personal trainers who are available for an additional fee, Durbin said the Y is looking forward to reintroducing “health coaches” to their staff. Whereas personal coaches will customize a fitness plan and oversee the workouts of their clients, health coaches will talk to members about their fitness goals and the amount of time they can dedicate to achieving them.

“We want to give people a sense of purpose in their workout,” Durbin said.

Keeping with the times, on-demand classes are also provided for Y members. This allows people to work out who might not be comfortable returning to traditional workout classes.

For more information, including class schedules, visit www.ymcafoothills.org.