When Ricky Ortiz first stepped into the Greater Burlington YMCA almost two years ago, he didn’t anticipate how transformative the experience would be. Originally from Los Angeles, California, his move to Burlington in the fall of 2017 marked a significant shift in lifestyle. “Mainly I wanted to live in a place that was the opposite of what living in LA was like,” he shares. He sought refuge from the pollution, crime, and fast-paced city life, craving the tranquility of Vermont’s mountains and a community-focused lifestyle.
The Greater Burlington Y quickly became more than just a gym for Ricky; it became a hub for exploring new avenues of staying active. “The Y here in Burlington offers so much to the community,” he explains. His initial curiosity about the diverse amenities led him to try the aquatics facilities, which were new to him. “I discovered that I love swimming, relaxing in the sauna after a long workout,” he noted. On the Wellness Floor, “there is an endless amount of equipment to use.”
Crowdsourcing Leads to Better Outcomes
It was listening to other members that encouraged Ricky to branch out. “The motivation to try different activities at the Y came by listening to other people talk about their routines or interests,” he notes. This openness to trying new things allowed him to find enjoyment in activities he hadn’t previously considered.
Before joining the Y, Ricky was already engaged in various physical activities, but as he transitioned from his 20s into his 30s, he noticed the physical toll of aging. “I can feel my joints and certain muscle groups starting to ache whenever they are not being properly taken care of,” he admits. This realization drove him to be more disciplined with his physical therapy regimen. However, he needed a dedicated space to maintain his routines. “I just needed a venue for it because I know I can’t keep the routines up in my living room,” he says.
Ricky’s introduction to weightlifting at the Y was initially daunting. “I remember being quite intimidated going to the section of the gym where the free weights were at first,” he recalls. But through observation and interaction with Y trainers and fellow gym-goers, he gradually learned how to use weights effectively. “After observing people lifting, and making the effort to chat with them, I learned how to use the weights and pursue bigger goals in my workout routines.” The results were significant. “I have packed on close to 20 pounds of muscle and feel much better overall,” he proudly states.