Across the country, YMCAs are continually looking for new ways to engage youth, build positive behaviors, and create environments where every child feels motivated to participate. At YMCA Hoover and the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, exergaming has emerged as a powerful tool to do just that—meeting kids where they are and re-energizing youth programming in meaningful ways. As highlighted in…
For the YMCA of Birmingham—specifically the Hoover YMCA branch—Exergaming has become far more than a fun add-on to their youth programming. It has quickly evolved into one of the most powerful tools for engaging families, boosting program perception, and even helping sell new memberships. In a recent video walkthrough of their Exergame space, the staff discusses how kids naturally gravitate…
At the Hoover YMCA, part of the YMCA of Greater Birmingham Association, the sound of laughter, friendly competition, and high-energy play fills the air. Thanks to the integration of Exergaming, the Y’s “Y-Kids” program now features an innovative fitness experience that merges technology, movement, and fun—helping kids stay active in ways that feel natural and exciting. A Space Where Fitness…
At the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, the Hoover branch has taken a big step toward blending fitness and fun with the introduction of Exergaming—a cutting-edge approach to getting kids moving through interactive play. This new addition is already sparking excitement among youth members, families, and staff alike, transforming how children experience physical activity inside the YMCA. During a recent conversation…
At the Hoover YMCA, part of the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, kids are discovering that fitness doesn’t have to feel like “exercise” when it’s fun, engaging, and interactive. This summer, campers dove headfirst into the world of Exergaming—and they can’t get enough of it. Movement Meets Play Exergaming blends physical activity with interactive technology, turning traditional workouts into exciting challenges.…
How Exergaming Is Helping the YMCA of Greater Birmingham Bridge the Gap in Teen Fitness and Family Engagement At the Hoover YMCA, part of the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, innovation is taking center stage in youth programming. Kristin Harris, the Executive Director, recently shared how their decision to integrate exergaming has started to reshape how teens and families engage with…
Over the past year, the YMCA of Greater Birmingham and Hoover YMCA have embraced exergaming—an innovative blend of exercise and gaming—to enhance their youth development, after‑school, and summer camp offerings. Here’s a closer look at how this fun, effective approach is reshaping the Y experience: 🎮 What is Exergaming? Exergaming combines physical activity with interactive gaming technology—kids jump, move, and…
Exergaming, or exercise gaming, combines physical activity with video games to create a fun and engaging way to stay active. It’s a great concept for multipurpose spaces because it offers several benefits and can be integrated into various settings. Recently at the YMCA Skagit we were able to talk with their Executive Director on how they have used this Exergame…
Active or exercise-based video games offer several advantages over non-active video games, primarily related to physical health, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Recently Exergame was able to catch up with Sonya “Coach” Crider of the YMCA of Central Florida on the impact of interactive gaming at the Y. One of the really interesting things to hear from Coach, was how…
The YMCA is a committed place that is nurturing of every child and teen. From cradle to long term career, the Y helps young people to lead inspired, successful lives. At the YMCA of Skagit this is no different as they put a heavy focus on hitting all the mission goals. Recently with the inclusion of the Exergame room, they…
Exergames, or interactive video games that involve physical activity, have gained attention as a potential tool to address various health and cognitive issues in children, including short attention spans. At the YMCA, we’ve revolutionized our fitness programs to enhance your child’s coordination, endurance, and strength while fostering friendships in a safe and welcoming space. Find out how the YMCA Central…
One of the big questions I see continually throughout the YMCAs is, “How do I show value to the teens when trying to sell a family membership.” Many teens might not find the fitness center interesting, or may feel to old for the childcare spaces. So the big question becomes “how can I give them an active space that they…
