For Patrick Standen, a member of the Greater Burlington YMCA, fitness is far more than a routine — it’s a way of life grounded in philosophy. A wheelchair athlete, writer, and philosophy professor at Saint Michael’s College, Patrick shares a perspective that many Y members bring to the gym floor and beyond. “I believe in the maxim of a strong body, strong mind,” he shares. “And firmly believe the two are wholly integrated.”
Living in Burlington, Patrick has found more than just fitness equipment at the Y — he’s found a sense of belonging. “I love the community and resources the Y provides,” he says, highlighting not only the physical benefits but also the emotional connection that comes from being part of an inclusive space.
A passionate swimmer, Patrick also lifts weight and uses the upper body ergometer. Every few weeks, he challenges himself with a self-designed “mini-triathlon,” combining swimming, a stationary handcycle, and laps around the indoor track in his wheelchair. It’s a routine that pushes his limits while reflecting a personal drive toward holistic wellness.
The accessibility of the Y facility and breadth of offerings have also opened the door to new experiences. “The Y has made it possible for me to try water fitness classes, seated yoga, and even Spanish language classes,” Patrick says. “Opportunities not available at any other gym.”
His commitment to consistency is clear: “You need to make exercise a routine habit similar to brushing your teeth. You do it.” Yet, he’s candid about the challenges, noting that physical accessibility remains the biggest barrier to maintaining healthy habits. Still, the supportive environment of the Y plays a vital role in his continued dedication.
What has surprised Patrick most? “The range of resources — from the pool, sauna, and weight room, to the courts.” The Greater Burlington Y, with its dynamic mix of aquatics, cardio and strength training, and group fitness classes, has provided him with tools not only to train but to thrive.
But perhaps the most powerful part of Patrick’s story is the community he’s found. “When I visit the Y, I am part of an inclusive community welcoming people from all parts of our broader community,” he says. It’s this welcoming spirit — paired with his belief in the integration of mind and body — that makes Patrick’s journey at the Y both inspiring and emblematic of what the Y stands for: support, strength, and belonging for all.