Danville YMCA offering new incentive to help people get healthy

YMCA starting "Try Something New" Fitness challenge Friday

DANVILLE, Va. – The Danville YMCA is taking a new step to try to help people in Southside live healthy lifestyles.

The "Try Something New" fitness challenge starts Friday and runs through the end of the month.

Members can try out any of the Y's classes for free.

With Southside being one of the most unhealthy parts of the state due to a high rate of poverty and lack of access to healthy food among other factors, the Y's wellness director, Leanne Shemeth, says the ultimate goal is to encourage everyone to take an interest in their health.

"This is the first time doing it. We also will offer a fitness challenge come September. We're trying to do a monthly challenge to engage our members, but also engage the community," Shemeth said.

Various points will be awarded depending on what classes you try.

The member with the most points at the end of the month will receive a prize.