Program Offerings
The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids offers a variety of programs from swim lessons to sports clinics to nutrition classes, there's something for everyone. Offerings vary each season.
STEM Classes
Program offerings vary each season. Please visit our Program Registration page to view our running classes.
Ages 9-13 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
Put your engineering thinking caps on because the time has come to create an assortment of structures! Led by the Scout Outreach staff learn new ways of developing structures using materials like blocks, straws, toothpicks and much more! It?s guaranteed to be a hands-on science exploration kind of day. This class is appropriate for children in upper elementary (3rd through 5th grades) All supplies included.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 8-12 years | 2 hours
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
Our course introduces students to the exciting world of programming using Gdevelop as a low code tool for creating video games. Students will give into the fundamentals of programming through instructor guidance and interactive exercises.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 9-13 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
Ready! Set! Go! Experiment with wheels, gears and all moving things! Led by the Scout Outreach staff paint with cars, launch balloon rockets, and explore friction with boats! If you’ve ever wanted to learn the science behind movement don’t let this class pass you by! This class is appropriate for children in upper elementary (3rd through 5th grades). All supplies included.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 9-13 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Wanna try it all? This sampler will be led by the Scout Outreach staff and has the best STEAM projects. Each
week will be a different focus, from science, technology, engineering, arts and math. This class is appropriate for children in upper elementary (3rd through 5th grades) All supplies are included.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 9-13 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
In this classic Scouting activity, youth will get the opportunity to design, build, and decorate their own model race cars out of blocks of pinewood, using lessons in gravity, mass, and aerodynamics to create the fastest car possible. Think you can build the fastest car? Come join us to find out! This class is appropriate for children in upper elementary (3rd through 5th grade). All supplies included.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Sports Classes
Program offerings vary each season. Please visit our Program Registration page to view our running classes.
Ages 9-12 years | 1 hour
Locations Offered
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Led by an archery enthusiast, learn the sport of archery from the ground up with focus on patience, discipline, and perseverance. Equipment provided (including bows).
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Pass. Dribble. Shoot. Learn the fundamentals of basketball while strengthening coordination.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 7-11, 10-14 years | 1 hour
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Experience Field Hockey and learn basic skills, terminology, how to play, while strengthening hand-eye-stick coordination through fun games and instructional drills. Outdoor shoes and sports attire required. Balls and Field hockey sticks provided but if you have your own sticks please bring.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Catching, Throwing, Running. Learn the fundamentals of football while developing coordination.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5, 6-9 & 6-8 years | 1 hour
Locations Offered
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Birdie, Bunker, Fore! Expand your golf skills by improving your swing form and technique, while developing a full swing with fairway irons.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 5+ years | 45 minutes
Locations Offered
- YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin, Middleville
Private lessons will be available for beginner to experienced riders ages 5 and up. English and Western lessons are available on one of our trusted camp horses.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Pass. Shoot. Learn the fundamentals of soccer while building coordination.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Learn the elements that are needed to build a foundation for soccer, basketball, t-ball, and more with a different sport spotlighted each week.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 2-3 & 6-8 years | 30 min
Locations Offered
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
Learn the elements that are needed to build a foundation for soccer, basketball, t-ball, and more with a different sport spotlighted each week. Parent participation required.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 4-6, 7-14, and 15+ years | 1 hour
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Litehouse Family YMCA, Lowell
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Experience Martial Arts taught by certified instructors. You will increase self-confidence by learning to apply defensive & offensive techniques, physical & mental skill sets.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5 years | 45 minutes
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
Explore the basics of t-ball through drills that teach proper throwing technique, fielding positions, the difference between bases, as well as proper hitting stance. Glove required.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 4-5, 6-8, and 9-12 years | 45 minutes
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
Experience tennis and learn basic tennis strokes while strengthening hand-eye coordination through fun games and instructional drills.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 18mo-3 years | 30 minutes
Bond, laugh, and play through creative activities that strengthen your child’s balance and build fundamental movements needed in tumbling. Either a leotard or long shirt required. Shorts, capri pants, or sweatpants required.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5 years | 45 minutes
Locations Offered
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Increase strength, balance, and coordination in tumbling through games with balloons, hula hoops, bean bags, and music. Either a leotard or long shirt required. Shorts, capri pants, or sweatpants required.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6-8, 9-14 years | 1 hour
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
Experience Ultimate Frisbee and learn the many disc throwing/catching skills, terminology, how to play, while strengthening hand-eye coordination through fun games and instructional drills. Outdoor shoes and sports attire required. All equipment provided.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6-12 years | 1 hour
Locations Offered
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Bump. Set. Spike. Learn the fundamentals of volleyball while increasing strength, endurance, and skill in a team atmosphere.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Sports Clinics
Get ready for upcoming seasons at the Y with our summer and fall clinics. Build and refine skills through games, drills, and activities in a fun and energizing atmosphere for two hours every Monday – Thursday. Program offerings vary each season. Please visit our Program Registration page to view our current offerings.
Ages 9-12
Locations Offered
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Learn the sport of archery from the ground up, focusing on safety, patience, discipline, and perseverance. Kids will get an opportunity to shoot at a 3D target range.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6-8, and 9-12
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
Build and refine core skills such as ball handling, defense, offense, rebounding, shooting, conditioning and more. Taught by professionally-trained coaches. All levels are welcome and will be separated by age and skill level.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5, 5-7 & 7-12
Our dance clinics offer a safe and nurturing environment for participants to creatively express themselves. While engaged in the program, participants will get to explore different styles and techniques of dance. Some styles may include, ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, tumbling and more.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6-8, and 9-12
Catching, throwing, running, and defense will be taught, along with basic plays that will strengthen coordination and build self confidence.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6-8, and 9-12
This clinic is designed so that participants will learn the game of lacrosse focusing on the fundamentals, while continuing to learn more about our core values, sportsmanship and teamwork. Participants will practice different positions and learn new skills.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 9-12
Locations Offered
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Develop and refine core skills such as dribbling, defense, scoring, goal keeping, passing, conditioning and more. Taught by professionally-trained coaches. All levels are welcome and will be separated by age and skill level.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6-8, and 9-12
This clinic is designed to introduce and further develop the game of tennis. An emphasis will be placed on the technique of each stroke. Children will learn basic tennis strokes, hand-eye coordination, and other skills.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 9-12
Locations Offered
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Learn the game of volleyball focusing on the fundamentals, while practicing different positions, volleys, serving, bumping, spiking and more!
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Youth Leagues
For all leagues: gym shoes and sports attire are required. Equipment is provided unless otherwise stated. Practice times and game times are determined after registration. Team attire can be purchased at your branch’s front desk. Program offerings vary each season. Please visit our Program Registration page to view our running classes.
Seasons Played
- Spring
- Summer
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Ages
- Pre K-Kindergarten | 30 Min Practice/30 Min Game
Get in the game in the Y’s T-ball League, where every player receives equal play time. Through positive coaching, practices and games, our young athletes build and refine skills while gaining self-confidence, sportsmanship, and teamwork.
Wheelchair Adaptive
- To register for adaptive leagues please visit the Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital website.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Seasons Played
- Spring
- Summer
Locations Offered
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Ages
- Grades 1st – 4th | 30 Min Practice/30 Min Game
Hit a home run while strengthening batting, fielding, and teamwork in an energizing atmosphere. Two (home and away) baseball jerseys and hat additional cost. - Boys & Girls Grades 5th –8th | 60 Min Practice/60 Min Game Learn and refine skills and build teamwork, leadership, and confidence in a team atmosphere where fun is a top priority. Equal play time. Gym shoes and sports attire required.
- Ted Rasberry Youth League | 1st – 6th Grade
For over 25 years, the Ted Rasberry Youth League has provided students of Grand Rapids Public Schools with a summer baseball and softball experience. Through our partnership with the Whitecaps Community Foundation, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Meijer, and Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation, the YMCA is able to provide this league at no cost to participants and include equipment, jersey, and a nutritious meal at each practice. Register Your Student or Volunteer to Coach
Wheelchair Adaptive
- To register for adaptive leagues please visit the Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital website.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Seasons Played
- Winter
- Fall
Locations
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Ages
- Pre K-Kindergarten | 30 Min Practice/30 Min Game
Dribble. Pass. Shoot. Strengthen hand-eye coordination while learning the fundamentals of basketball in a game atmosphere. - Boys & Girls Grades: 1st –8th | 60 Min Practice/60 Min Game
Take to the court where action, development, and milestones are reached. Develop a strong work ethic as well as sportsmanship and teamwork while improving coordination.
Wheelchair Adaptive
- To register for adaptive leagues please visit the Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital website.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Seasons Played
- Fall
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Ages
- Pre K-Kindergarten | 30 Min Practice/30 Min Game
Strengthen hand-eye coordination, gain team spirit, and have fun while learning the fundamentals of flag football in a game
atmosphere.
Wheelchair Adaptive
- To register for adaptive leagues please visit the Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital website.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Seasons Played
- Spring
- Fall
Locations
- Litehouse Family YMCA, Lowell
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Ages
- Pre K/ Kindergarten | 30 Min Practice/30 Min Game
Learn and refine skills and build teamwork, leadership, and confidence in a team atmosphere where fun is a top priority. Equal play time. Gym shoes, shin guards, and sports attire required. Equipment provided. - Grades 1-8 Boys & Girls | 60 Min Practice/60 Min Game
Learn and refine skills and build teamwork, leadership, and confidence in a team atmosphere where fun is a top priority. Equal play time. Soccer shoes, shin guards, and sports attire required.
Wheelchair Adaptive
- To register for adaptive leagues please visit the Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital website.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Dance Classes
Dance classes are offered year round at various branch locations and various dates. To perform in the Spring Recital, dancers must participate in both Winter 2 and Spring Sessions. Costumes, recital ticket prices, and photos vary by location. Winter 1 session is a non-recital class. Program offerings vary each season. Please visit our Program Registration page to view our current offerings.
Ages 3-5, 5-7, and 7-12 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Plié. Pirouette. Relevé. Discover the basics of ballet in a safe, fun, and
social atmosphere.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 2-3 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
Parents join in the fun as children learn creative movement and explore music while setting the groundwork for the fundamentals of ballet under the directions of an instructor. Parent participation is required.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5, 5-7, and 7-12 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Discover the basics of ballet and tap in a fun and social atmosphere while gaining self confidence. Leather ballet shoes required. Tap shoes or shoes that make noise when you walk required.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 5-7, and 7-12 years | 45 min
Work on top rock, drops/ go downs, footwork, R.A.P. System (rhythm, anticipation, and pattern), power and freezes in this high energy atmosphere.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5 years | 45 min
Create rhythmic patterns and timely beats while learning basic combinations and movements of tap. Tap shoes or shoes that make noise when you walk required.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 5-7, and 7-12 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Master basic movements and gain confidence as you learn combinations, eight counts, and express your inner creativity through freestyle.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3-5, 5-7, and 7-12 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
This class teaches a classical form of Broadway jazz. Students will learn stretching, isolations, musicality and are encouraged through a noncompetitive atmosphere.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 5-7, and 7-12 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
Explore the energetic and exciting steps of jazz composed of classical ballet moves mixed with steps from American pop culture. Tap shoes or shoes that make noise when you walk required.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 18 mo-3 yr, and 3-5 years | 45 min
Explore rhythm, singing, and movement while improving coordination. Comfy clothes/ sports attire recommended.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 5-7, and 7-12 years | 45 min
Locations Offered
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA
Discover the basics of Tap in a fun and social atmosphere while gaining self confidence. Students will learn stretching, isolations, musicality and are encouraged through a noncompetitive atmosphere.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 18+ | 45 min
Learn the fundamentals of classical ballet in a fun, noncompetitive environment. Improve flexibility, strength, posture, and agility through exercises designed for all. Class is taught by an experienced dancer.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Swim Lessons
Achieve and master new skills and strokes while having fun swimming and gaining confidence with America’s favorite swim instructor. Our swim lessons are taught by trained, qualified swim instructors. Learn more about our swim lessons by visiting our swim lessons page. Program offerings vary each season. Please visit our Program Registration page to view our current offerings.
Ages 6 months – 36 months | 30 minutes | 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Accompany your child while they gain comfort in the water and develop essential swim readiness skills through a fun, confidence-building experience. Waterproof diaper required for those not potty trained. Swimmer must be at least 6 months old on first day of class and be able to control head movement.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 months – 36 months | 30 minutes | 12:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Through water exploration and guidance from an instructor, work in the pool with your child on basic swim body positions, floating, blowing bubbles and fundamental safety and swim skills. Waterproof diaper required for those not potty trained. Swimmer must be at least 6 months old on first day of class and be able to control head movement.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3 – 5 years | 30 minutes | 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Designed for beginner swimmers to help your child gain comfort in underwater exploration and develop independent movement with aid from an instructor as well as how to safely exit in the event of falling into a body of water.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3 – 5 years | 30 minutes | 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Develop skills focused on independent floating and gliding in the water while continuing to build upon basic self-rescue skills performed unassisted. • 30 minutes • 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Pre-requisites:
Pass Stage 1: Water Acclimation or have the ability to:
- Go under water and comfortable opening eyes without goggles
- Float on front and back with minimal assistance
- Jump in the pool, submerge and return to the wall with assistance
- *Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3 – 5 years | 30 minutes | 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Learn rhythmic breathe control, arm and leg integrated movement, how to propel forward on front and back, as well as how to swim to safety from longer distances while practicing skills and techniques in deeper water. • 30 minutes • 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Pre-requisites:
Pass Stage 1: Water Acclimation or have the ability to:
- Go under water and comfortable opening eyes without goggles
- Float on front and back with minimal assistance
- Jump in the pool, submerge and return to the wall with assistance
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 3 – 5 years | 30 minutes | 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Develop stroke techniques for the front and back crawl, breaststroke kick, and butterfly kick. Water safety is reinforced through practicing safety techniques in deeper water such as treading water and elementary back stroke.
Pre-requisites:
Pass Stage 3: Water Stamina or ability to perform these skills:
- Submerge and retrieve an object in chest deep water
- Swim front crawl 15 yards while taking a breath unassisted
- Swim-float-swim 15 yards unassisted
- Jump in and tread water for 30 seconds unassisted
- Swim to wall and exit unassisted
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 18 years | 90 minutes
Locations Offered:
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
Description:
Swimmers work on stroke refinement and work on more advanced skills while increasing distance and speed and building endurance to move to a more competitive level. Individual goals are set at the beginning of each session with personal bests logged throughout session.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 11 – 15 years | 60 minutes
Locations Offered:
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
Description:
The Junior Lifeguard Club teaches preteens and teens lifesaving skills and water safety for pools and waterfront sites while emphasizing teamwork and leadership. Club members gain a wide variety of skills including CPR and First Aid certifications, basic water assists, and will also spend time improving swimming endurance. This program is designed as a continuum following the Youth 6: Stroke Mechanics
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 18 years+
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
Further development of freestyle, breast stroke and backstroke. Special attention to skills through a variety of drills with the use of lap swimming. This is good for increasing endurance and developing advanced swim skills over a longer distance with increased confidence.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 12 years | 30 minutes | 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Designed for beginner swimmers to help your child gain comfort in underwater exploration and develop independent movement with aid from an instructor as well as how to safely exit in the event of falling into a body of water.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 12 years | 30 minutes | 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Develop skills focused on independent floating and gliding in the water while continuing to build upon basic self-rescue skills performed unassisted.
Pass Stage 1: Water Acclimation or have the ability to:
- Go under water and comfortable opening eyes without goggles
- Float on front and back with minimal assistance
- Jump in the pool, submerge and return to the wall with assistance
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 12 years | 30 minutes | 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Learn rhythmic breathe control, arm and leg integrated movement, how to propel forward on front and back, as well as how to swim to safety from longer distances while practicing skills and techniques in deeper water.
Pre-requisites:
Pass Stage 1: Water Acclimation or have the ability to:
- Go under water and comfortable opening eyes without goggles
- Float on front and back with minimal assistance
- Jump in the pool, submerge and return to the wall with assistance
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 12 years | 30 minutes | 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Develop stroke techniques for the front and back crawl, breaststroke kick, and butterfly kick. Water safety is reinforced through practicing safety techniques in deeper water such as treading water and elementary back stroke. Goggles recommended.
Pre-requisites:
Pass Stage 3: Water Stamina or ability to perform these skills:
- Submerge and retrieve an object in chest deep water
- Swim front crawl 15 yards while taking a breath unassisted
- Swim-float-swim 15 yards unassisted
- Jump in and tread water for 30 seconds unassisted
- Swim to wall and exit unassisted
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 12 years | 40 minutes | 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Build stamina in the front and back crawl through stroke technique drills, while learning all major competitive strokes including the breaststroke and butterfly. Water Safety is reinforced through building endurance techniques in treading water and sidestroke. Goggles recommended.
Pre-requisites:
Pass Stage 4: Stroke Introduction or ability to perform these skills:
- Front crawl and back crawl 25 yards unassisted
- Swim breaststroke kick and butterfly kick 15 yards unassisted
- Tread water using multiple kicks for 1 minute unassisted
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 12 years | 40 minutes | 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio
Locations Offered:
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
Description:
Enhance endurance in competitive strokes while developing skills related to competitive swim such as flip turns. Discover how to incorporate swimming into a lifelong healthy lifestyle while refining skills and building endurance in deep water. Goggles recommended.
Pre-requisites:
Pass Stage 5: Stroke Development or ability to perform these skills:
- Swim front crawl with bent arm recovery and rotary breathing for 25 yards
- Swim back crawl with stroke rotation for 25 yards
- Swim butterfly with over arm recovery
- Swim breaststroke for 25 yards achieving stroke rhythm
- Dive from kneeling position
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 13+ years | 40 minutes
Locations Offered:
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
Description:
For those adults not fully comfortable around water and looking to learn the basic strokes and skills to build confidence and be more comfortable with water activity. Swimmers will focus on basic techniques with the use of floatation devices to gain knowledge of basic breathing techniques and basic strokes such as front paddle, side paddle, and back paddle.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 13 years+ | 40 minutes
Locations Offered:
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
Description:
Develop stronger strokes, improve endurance with helpful techniques to develop comfortable movement in the water. Start moving into rhythmic breathing and all around confidence in the water. Introduction to freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke and resting strokes.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 13 years+ | 40 minutes
Locations Offered:
- Ionia County YMCA, Ionia
Description:
Further development of freestyle, breast stroke and backstroke. Special attention to skills through a variety of drills with the use of lap swimming. This is good for increasing endurance and developing advanced swim skills over a longer distance with increased confidence.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Adult Programs
Program offerings vary each season. Please visit our Program Registration page to view our current offerings.
Ages 18+ | Offered Summer, Fall, Winter
Locations
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
Teams consist of 7-10 players and play full court with two twenty minute halves. 6-game season, officiated with weekly standings and championship tournament. Teams consist of 7-10 players and play full court with two twenty minute halves.
Wheelchair Adaptive
- To register for adaptive leagues please visit the Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital website.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Please visit the front desk to register for an Adult Basketball League.
AGES 18+
Burn more calories and achieve your fitness goals with ease in a fun, high
energy atmosphere that combines tennis with a full body, calorie burning
workout. Racquet not provided.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
Up to three pickleball courts are available during this time. Rotate with other players so everyone has a change to participate. Please bring a racquet and ball. Safety glasses are recommended.
See available times and locations by visiting our Group Fitness page and choosing Pickleball under class options.
18+ | 4 Hours | Offered Winter, Fall
Locations
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
This competitive, round-robin league is fun for all ages. Participants get a great work out in a friendly atmosphere. 7 weeks of play. Beginners welcome.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 13+ | 1 hour
Increase your functional strength through total body workouts that combine strength, flexibility, and cardio training in a small group of four to six people. Taught by certified instructors.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 15+
Locations Offered
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
- SpartanNash YMCA, Wyoming
- Visser Family YMCA, Grandville
- Litehouse Family YMCA, Lowell
Experience the Korean form of Martial Arts taught by certified instructors at the Y. These instructors will teach students to apply defensive and offensive Tae Kwon Do techniques and physical and mental skill sets, all while increasing self-confidence.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 18+ | 4’s team and 6’s team | Offered Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, SE Grand Rapids
- Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA, Belmont
- David D. Hunting YMCA, Downtown Grand Rapids
Spike it! Enjoy great volleys while increasing skill and gaining new friendships. Co-ed teams of 4 – recreational and competitive leagues have 12 matches in 6 weeks and a playoff night in week 7. Recreational league is not officiated. Co-ed and women’s teams of 6 – recreational and competitive leagues have 8 officiated matches including playoffs.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Cooking, Gardening & Nutrition Programs
Release your inner chef in our cooking classes and workshops. Our recreational hands-on sessions offer delicious, locally inspired, healthy food in a social environment. Not only will you walk away with delicious food, but you will walk away with cooking skills as we focus on technique. Classes and workshops are for all levels. Program offerings vary each season. Please visit our Program Registration page to view our running classes.
Ages 3 – 5 years | 1 hour
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
This workshop starts with reading a fun book about food and then little ones get to make a delicious treat in theme with the book. Fun and interactive class for preschool aged children and an adult. Children will also get to take home a copy of the book for your home library.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 12 years | 1 hour
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
Learn basic cooking skills, the joy eating and cooking with fresh fruits and vegetables, and how to become empowered consumers in a society that spends millions persuading us to eat high-calorie, low nutrient products. All ingredients and equipment provided.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 17 years | 1 hour
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
Learn basic cooking skills while using season specific ingredients, with a focus on fresh, nutrient dense dishes that are both tasty and beautiful.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 6 – 17 years | 2 hours
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
Learn a few classic holiday dessert recipes and techniques in this 2 hour session. All equipment and ingredients provided.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 14 – 18+ years | 1 hour
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) will cover a variety of topics based on the topic of the class including building muscle, gluten free options and eating for weight loss.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 4+ years | 1 hour
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
In this class, children will get to make their own garden craft while learning about bugs, gardens and everything that a garden needs to thrive. The class is open to children 4 and up and their adult guardians.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 16+ years | 1 hour
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
Gardening is a great way to get outside and connect with your family or neighbors, and there’s the obvious benefit of fresh, healthy food that comes as a fruit of your labor, but sometimes harvests can be overwhelming. This class will give you some skills that you can use to practice a “whole harvest” – to use as much of your harvest (or CSA share or farmer’s market haul) as possible. We’ll be learning simple preservation techniques as well as delicious recipes that use up odd or overlooked vegetables or parts of vegetables.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
Ages 18+ years | 2 hours
Locations
- Mary Free Bed YMCA, Grand Rapids
Description:
Learn how to create your own Holiday Porch Pot with our very own horticulturist. Participants will bring in their own porch pot/container. Everything else will be provided to create and customize a lovely holiday porch pot. After adding a mix of fresh greens, the participants will add their own personal touch using pinecones, berries, birch branches, dried hydrangeas and assorted holiday cheer! Using one’s own creativity allows each porch pot to take on its own beautiful personality that will last throughout the winter! All supplies, except pots/containers, provided.
*Program locations, dates, and availability vary by season.
FAQs
All program participants can expect to receive a warm welcome from their program director(s) a week before an offering begins with details on necessary equipment, what to expect during their first class and more.
Members can register for programs before the general public. In addition, they receive a significant discount on program rates provided they remain a member throughout the length of the course.
Refunds will not be available after the first class of a session. No partial refunds will be granted for missed classes or weather-related cancellations, although we will attempt to make up classes postponed for inclement weather. All programs have a minimum number of participants in order to begin. If registration falls short of this minimum, the class will be canceled and a credit will be applied to your account for the canceled program. Prorated fees will not be granted for any participant who joins a program session after the starting date or who leaves the program session before the end date.
