Frequently Asked Questions
Updated 4/30/2021
Are you open?
Yes! We successfully reopened in July 2020, and we are here to help you, your family, and the greater community regain health, well-being, and connection.
Yes! We successfully reopened in July 2020, and we are here to help you, your family, and the greater community regain health, well-being, and connection.
What is your COVID-19 member policy?
Upon entering the facility all members will self-certify that they agree to the following statements:
- I have not had a cough or fever for 14 days.
- I have been free of COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days.
- I agree to maintain social distancing whenever possible.
- I agree to wipe down all equipment, before and after use.
- I agree to wearing a self-provided face covering during my visit while inside the building.
- I acknowledge that the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing and accept the risk of participating in activities outside of my home.
Do I need to wear a mask/face covering? What if I have been vaccinated?
All members, staff, program participants, and anyone else entering our facilities/program spaces are required to wear a mask when in the building. Some exceptions apply, such as when a person is in the pool, children under 2 years old, and certain medical conditions. If you have any questions or concerns regarding our face mask policy, please reach out to Kim Benzan, Chief Operating Officer, at 617-244-6050 ext. 3031.
We are pleased to hear that many people in our community are getting vaccinated. However, at this time we still require all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask while at the Y. This is consistent with the current CDC guidance that vaccinated individuals continue to take precautions.
Are there capacity limits in place? Will I need to wait in line to use the facility?
We are following capacity limits set by Massachusetts state guidelines. We do not anticipate nor have we experienced a line of members waiting to use the facility - even during periods when the state had more restrictions on capacity limits. If you need to speak with our Welcome Center staff upon entrance and they are occupied with another member or phone call, you may need to wait for a few minutes for a staff member to become available. If you're simply scanning in to come workout or attend a previously scheduled reservation, then check-in should occur smoothly and without holdup.
We are following capacity limits set by Massachusetts state guidelines. We do not anticipate nor have we experienced a line of members waiting to use the facility - even during periods when the state had more restrictions on capacity limits. If you need to speak with our Welcome Center staff upon entrance and they are occupied with another member or phone call, you may need to wait for a few minutes for a staff member to become available. If you're simply scanning in to come workout or attend a previously scheduled reservation, then check-in should occur smoothly and without holdup.
What can I do at the Y?
Nearly everything that was available to members before the pandemic is available now. For a comprehensive list, check out What's Available on our website.
Nearly everything that was available to members before the pandemic is available now. For a comprehensive list, check out What's Available on our website.
Do I need a reservation to come to the Y?
You do not need a reservation to come to the Y, however, there are some offerings where a reservation is required. Reservations are needed for group exercise classes, pool lap lanes, family swim, use of the basketball court, and use of the squash/racquetball court. Learn about reservations.
You do not need a reservation to come to the Y, however, there are some offerings where a reservation is required. Reservations are needed for group exercise classes, pool lap lanes, family swim, use of the basketball court, and use of the squash/racquetball court. Learn about reservations.
Reservations are not needed to workout in the fitness center, use a cardio machine, walk or run the indoor or outdoor track, and more.
Can I use the locker rooms? Are showers available?
Yes! The men's and women's locker rooms are open and available for use, including the use of showers. Private changing rooms/showers A-E are also available. Members should bring their own towel and lock for the lockers. We ask that you keep your mask on at all times in the locker rooms, practice social distancing, and adhere to the posted Code of Conduct. Please note, the sauna, whirlpool, and steam rooms located within the group locker rooms are closed per state guidelines.
Yes! The men's and women's locker rooms are open and available for use, including the use of showers. Private changing rooms/showers A-E are also available. Members should bring their own towel and lock for the lockers. We ask that you keep your mask on at all times in the locker rooms, practice social distancing, and adhere to the posted Code of Conduct. Please note, the sauna, whirlpool, and steam rooms located within the group locker rooms are closed per state guidelines.
What should I bring to the Y?
You must bring a face covering/mask to wear at all times in the building. We also recommend bringing your own water bottle, towel, and yoga mat. Water fountains are only available for bottle filling (no drinking spout). All vending machines and coffee stations have been removed. If you've lost or misplaced your member scan card, we are asking members to download our WSYMCA App to assist in scanning in at the front desk.
How is social distancing enforced?
Signs are posted outside and inside the building regarding social distancing. Floor markers are also used throughout the building to assist with building flow. We ask that members stay at least 6 feet away from others whenever possible. Staff will be monitoring all areas and will ask groups to separate if necessary. All cardio and strength machines are spaced 14 feet apart or have appropriate barriers as outlined by the state's fitness and health club guidance. Plexi glass has been installed around the Front Desk and other areas to allow safe member interaction with staff.
What is your cleaning protocol?
Members are asked to wipe down any equipment or machine they use both before and after each use. Our Health & Safety Team is active and cleaning surfaces and high touchpoints throughout the day. We also have a professional cleaning company that cleans the facility entirely once the Y is closed for the day. You will see additional cleaning, sanitizer, and hand washing stations set up throughout the building for member and staff usage.
Are group exercise classes available?
Yes! We are offering group exercise classes outdoors, indoors, and virtually, so you can choose to workout where you are most comfortable. Group exercise classes require a reservation to attend and may have capacity limits. View the group exercise schedule.
What's happening with summer camp?
The West Suburban YMCA had a very successful 2020 summer camp season! We redesigned camp to address COVID-19, including facility modifications and upgrades, increased supplies and equipment, and additional staff to keep ratios low to ensure safe practices. We ran our day camps - YMCA Camp Pikati at the Y and YMCA Camp Chickami in Wayland - serving over 300 children per day. Visit our camp pages for more information. Our residental camp, YMCA Camp Frank A. Day, did not run during the 2020 summer season, but is back for 2021 and is excited for a great season!
What will happen if a confirmed case of COVID-19 arises in direct connection with the West Suburban YMCA?
Should we be made aware that a visitor to our Y tested positive for COVID-19, we would immediately contact the Newton Department of Health and Human Services (NHHS). From there, NHHS would determine what level of contact tracing is required and notify those who are considered close contacts of the positive case and provide instructions regarding testing, self-quarantine, and self-monitoring. It is the role of the NHHS to develop the necessary action steps to help limit and stop the spread of the virus. The West Suburban YMCA cannot disclose any additional information to the public or its members. The Y coordinates with NHHS, who will guide us in our efforts to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
Should we be made aware that a visitor to our Y tested positive for COVID-19, we would immediately contact the Newton Department of Health and Human Services (NHHS). From there, NHHS would determine what level of contact tracing is required and notify those who are considered close contacts of the positive case and provide instructions regarding testing, self-quarantine, and self-monitoring. It is the role of the NHHS to develop the necessary action steps to help limit and stop the spread of the virus. The West Suburban YMCA cannot disclose any additional information to the public or its members. The Y coordinates with NHHS, who will guide us in our efforts to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
Is financial assistance available?
Yes, we want to ensure we meet families where they are at and make membership and programs accessible to all. Learn more.