Expansion doubles size of Midlothian YMCA

Midlothian fitness fanatics now have more room to stretch.

The Midlothian Family YMCA, which opened in 1995, has doubled its size from 26,000 to 52,000 square feet and now has a host of additions for its 8,000 members.

The upgraded Y at Coalfield and Woolridge roads boasts a 7,000-square-foot fitness center; a full-size gym; a children's center; music, aerobics and massage studios; an intergenerational center and more.

"There's even a heart-rate monitor system we bought so we can monitor everyone in a class up to 30 people simultaneously," said Scott Williams, the branch's executive director. "It's really neat because it gives the instructor an opportunity to cater a group exercise class to the individuals."

A mind-body studio caters to more serene activities such as yoga and tai chi.

Williams said the expansion, completed Jan. 1, took about a year at a cost of $5.5 million -- $2.5 million of which was donated by the community.

Carol Fleeger, 73, suffered a stroke four years ago because of a hole in her heart. She now works out a couple of times a week at the YMCA to keep healthy.

Asked if she approved of the changes, she replied: "Oh, my. Yes. Especially the new machines."

Fleeger's stroke left her with little control over her right side. She walks with a cane and has trouble speaking.

"She was very, very active," said her husband, Donald, who helps her use the machines in a new private fitness room. "Then the stroke came along and slowed her down quite a bit."

He said it's important for his wife to stay active because it could trigger increased brain function.

"The socialization is also a very important part of it," he said, adding that the YMCA's income-based membership rates help considerably given his wife's medical bills.

Contact Wesley P. Hester at (804) 648-6976 or .