Your Wellness Journey Starts Here
Whether you’re brand new to fitness, getting back on track after a break, or looking for a little more guidance in your routine, the Y has programs designed to help you find your footing and move forward with confidence. Our Getting Started resources give you direct access to qualified Wellness Staff who will learn about your goals, show you how to use our equipment correctly, and help you find the classes and programs that are the best fit for you. No pressure, no judgment — just a great start.
Where to Begin
We offer several ways to get started at the Y. Choose the path that feels right for you — or talk with our Wellness Staff and they’ll point you in the right direction.
Smart Start — Health Strategy Session
Smart Start — Health Strategy Session
Sit down with a member of our Wellness Staff for a 45-minute Smart Start Health Strategy Session. You’ll discuss your current exercise habits and more. Together, you’ll work through your current behaviors, plan your future goals, and determine how the Y can best support your journey.
This is a great first step whether you’re new to exercise, returning after time away, or looking for expert guidance. When a joiner fee is in place, it will be waived once you complete your Smart Start session.
Stop at the Member Service desk of your local Y to schedule your appointment.
Jump Start — Free for Y Members
Jump Start — Free for Y Members
Ready to take your fitness journey to new heights? Jump Start is the answer. This free program for Y members includes 4 sessions — each 30 minutes, led by certified personal trainers and wellness specialists — occurring every 4 weeks.
Jump Start gives you the knowledge you need to use wellness center equipment confidently and start working toward your fitness goals. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to break through a plateau, Jump Start provides personalized guidance and support to ignite your passion for fitness and transform your lifestyle.
Getting a Jump Start is easy! Simply complete the online form or register in person at the Wellness Center desk. Someone from our wellness team will reach out to schedule your first appointment and get you started on your wellness journey.
Equipment Orientation — Free for Y Members
Equipment Orientation — Free for Y Members
Y Members age 14 and older can schedule a one-on-one appointment with a qualified Wellness Center Trainer to learn proper form and technique on our full line of fitness equipment — including selectorized machines, free weights, and cardio equipment.
Y members ages 8–13 who complete a Youth Wellness Center Orientation are welcome to use our wellness center with a supervising adult age 16 or older. Learn more on your youth fitness page.
Register in person at the Wellness Center desk at your local Y. A member of our wellness team will reach out to schedule your first appointment and get you started.
Injury Consultation — Free Assessment
Injury Consultation — Free Assessment
Through our partnership with Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, Y members can receive a FREE 15-minute injury assessment at their local YMCA. Assessments cover aches, pains, injuries, joint problems, range of motion issues, and more.
What to Expect When You Get Started
Not sure what happens at your first visit? Here’s how most new members find their footing at the Y.
Join or Visit
Become a Y member or stop in at any location during staffed hours. Our team is happy to show you around and answer any questions.
Meet Your Wellness Team
Schedule a Smart Start Health Strategy Session or Equipment Orientation to set goals, complete a health screening, and learn how to confidently use the wellness center equipment.
Find Your Programs
Explore group exercise classes, personal training, small group training, and more. Your Wellness Staff will help you identify the best fit for your goals.
Keep Going
The Y is here for the long run. As your fitness evolves, we have programs at every level to keep you growing, challenged, and supported.
Advanced Health Coaching — For Those Who Need More
If you’ve tried getting started before but hit a wall, Advanced Health Coaching at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA is designed for you. One-on-one sessions with a certified health coach address the barriers that have held you back — from nutrition and sleep to stress and motivation. Your first consultation is free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule a Smart Start Health Strategy Session. In 45 minutes, you’ll set your goals, get a tour of the equipment, and receive a health screening — all with the help of a qualified Wellness Staff member.
Yes. Smart Start is free for Y members. If a joiner fee is in place when you join, it will be waived after you complete your Smart Start session.
A free program for Y members that includes 4 personalized 30-minute sessions with a certified trainer, occurring every 4 weeks. It’s designed to build your confidence with equipment and help you start reaching your fitness goals.
Through our partnership with Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, you can receive a free 15-minute injury consultation at your local Y. Contact your nearest Wellness Center for assessment dates and times.
Advanced Health Coaching at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA is specifically designed to help people who’ve hit barriers in the past. Your first consultation is free. Visit our Advanced Health Coaching page to learn more.
