New season to begin at the YMCA

Members of the Calvary Christian School volleyball team make use of the courts at the YMCA Tuesday afternoon for practice. [Click to enlarge]

Along with the new school year, several programs are beginning at the YMCA, from an after-school kids program to team sports to fitness programs of all sorts.

The YMCA Kids Company is an after-school program for students at Truman Elementary. The time is structured, but allows students the opportunity for some active play time and fun. There's also time set aside for doing homework. "We have that in the program, so when the kids go home they can have family time," said Dana Redburn, wellness director at the Osage Prairie YMCA.

During the fall, there are several fitness programs for teens and families, such as youth volleyball, a jump rope team, floor hockey, youth basketball (coming in November) and more.

"More fitness classes for a variety of age groups are coming up," Redburn said.

In general, fall activities are slated to begin around Sept. 7, the start of the season at the YMCA.

For adults, there are plenty of opportunities to get fit in the fall as well, ranging from a variety of activities planned to open gym times frequently worked into the YMCA's calendar.

There are wellness classes that focus on learning how to eat and exercise. This program meets once a week, featuring speakers and personal training sessions.

"We want to set everyone up for success," Redburn said. There are also activities like raquetball and medicine ball for those who want more variety in their workout.

Medicine ball, Redburn said, is an old sport -- popular when Herbert Hoover was in the White House. A variety of activities are performed using a weighted ball, primarily used for strengthening.

"It's kind of enjoying a resurgence now," and has proved popular with some local residents, Redburn said.

She cautions that medicine ball activities can sometimes be dangerous but also a great deal of fun.

Redburn urges citizens to check out the YMCA activities for free, "to make sure that's something that's right for you."

Redburn said all staff members are well-trained and ready to help.

The goal, she said, is to make the YMCA a good place to be and a place where all feel welcome.

For more information on the Osage Prairie YMCA, its upcoming programs or membership information, contact the facility at (417) 667-9622, or visit the organization's Web site at www.osageprairiey.org.