Meet Corey Estey – He Puts the Fun in Fitness!
After moving to Fredericton to start a new job after college, I was keen to meet new people AND work towards a healthier lifestyle. That’s when a co-worker suggested that I could achieve both goals at the YMCA! After raving about the equipment, pool, and steam room, he mentioned that when walking through the front doors, there is a real sense of community. For one, the staff and the members are friendly and helpful, and two, said he never feels insecure about his body or his goal while he is there. That was enough for me to give it a try! What did I have to lose (other than about 40lbs)? When I entered the YMCA for the first time, I was warmly greeted by a young man at the Welcome Desk. I don’t remember his name, but I remember the experience that he created in just minutes – the tour, the explanations, and the laughs. I knew then that the YMCA could help me reach my goals. It made signing up for a membership one of the easiest decisions I have ever made. This is why I chose the Y.
Shortly after joining the YMCA, I decided to try the Friday Night Dance Party. The instructor was so welcoming and full of energy, and I had so much fun that it quickly became a part of my weekly schedule. Making connections with a number of people that are there with a common goal and a love for dance made working out feel fun and safe. I forgot all about my insecurities and danced my cares away. A few months down the road, the instructor pulled me aside and gave me an opportunity that would change my life, as I knew it. She told me that she planned to stop the Friday Night Dance Party to pursue other passions UNLESS I was willing to take over as instructor. At the time, I was very shy – the thought of instructing a class made me sick to my stomach! I decided to accept the challenge, and a few weeks later, I was YMCA Staff! Little did I know, the opportunity that was given to me then would open the door for many other beautiful experiences. The confidence that I gained from doing the dance party helped me in the decision to work at the YMCA Welcome Desk, take AquaFit Instructor training, and eventually, become a Zumba Instructor! I know it is a cliché, but the people that I have met at the YMCA have helped me change my life for the better in so many ways!
I have been a Y member since November of 2016. I love working out in the wellness centre and swimming in the pool! Along with the Friday Night Dance Party, I enjoy group fitness classes like Group Blast, Group Ride, POUND, Zumba, and Strong by Zumba!
Looking to dance away your cares from the work week and usher in the weekend with style? Join Corey on Friday evenings at 6:00 p.m.in the M & M Studio for his Dance Party! You can also join Corey on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 in the M & M Studio and on Thursday evenings at 6:15 in the Gym with Kendra for an invigorating Zumba workout!