Wellness starts here
‘We do everything we can to make people feel like they belong’
For 32 years Eileen Bruleigh has been a familiar face at the YMCA of Cape Breton.
Her encouraging cheers and infectious personality make her group fitness classes popular amongst members of all ages and of all fitness levels. On any given day, you can count on seeing Eileen welcoming and supporting new and longtime members.
“I started instructing 32 years ago when my husband was working with Andre Gallant on the 1987 Canada Games to grow participation and sport opportunities locally,” says Eileen. “I wanted to get involved. I was a Y member at the time, but wanted to certify as an instructor. I loved exercise and I was a teacher with the school board, so becoming an instructor just made sense to me. I thought I could help people embrace a love of being active.”
At 61 years young, and with no plans of slowing down, Eileen is an amazing example of what the YMCA stands for and how it supports families.
“Our three children began their Y journey in pre-natal classes, followed by swim lessons, gym play, dance lessons and conditioning. We attribute their continued commitment to fitness as adults to their early start at the Y,” says Eileen.
As a YMCA, our goal is to provide wellness opportunities to our population. One of the ways we do this is by building a sense of community and belonging amongst our membership.
When you join the YMCA you’re not joining a gym. You’re joining a wellness centre that is committed to your health—physical, emotional and social.
Group classes, such as step, cycle and yoga, connect you with like-minded members who have been in your shoes. Getting into a class routine also helps members stick to their wellness plan and achieve their health goals.
“Group provides motivation. You learn together, support one another and have fun together,” says Eileen. “I really believe group classes help provide a holistic approach to activity and wellness. We do everything we can to make people feel like they belong.”
“When you work out physically, you are also supporting your social and emotional wellbeing. Find what works for you. You need to discover your fitness passion. Try walking, classes, weights, swimming — try everything until you find what you love. When you find it, you’ll stick to it,” says Eileen.
Our dedicated staff and instructors are always available to give you a tour and help you try the Y. Whether you’re just beginning or experienced, we’re here for you and offer lots of opportunities for wellness, including:
•Three wellness centres (Sydney, Membertou and Port Hawkesbury),
•80 classes a week, including cardio, yoga and strength training,
•Open swim times at the Sydney branch,
•Squash courts and lessons,
•Child-minding and family services.
When you join, you can count on seeing Eileen.
“I stay because I love it. I love helping people … it’s so fun. I take people one on one to help them become comfortable with a class. I try to support and motivate and I try to get them hooked. I also see how hard the staff are always working to enhance our community. It is like being part of a family here.”
For more information on the YMCA of Cape Breton, visit capebreton.ymca.ca, call 902-5629622 or email info@cbymca. com. You can also visit us on Facebook or Instagram.