Allie Martin's Y Story

Allie Martin recalled starting at the Downtown Duluth Area Family YMCA last September after moving to Cloquet. She and her husband had heard a lot of good things about the YMCA and were looking for a gym membership that included childcare. 

“So far, we have used childcare, Parents' Night Out, and gymnastics," she said. “We go to the gym every day that we can, which is normally 4-5 times a week, and my kids love the friends they have made there."

She said she also loves the mental health break from being home with toddlers a lot. 

“I get my activity in but also get to invest in myself, which would not be possible without the childcare setup," she said. 

“I have been a runner since I had kids (only because it’s one of the few things I can do and bring them with me) but much prefer being able to lift weights," she said. “I love the environment and have only grown to love the YMCA more as we have gone."

Martin has a mindset that’s only possible because of the availability of the YMCA. She said she can invest in her mental health, work out, and know that her boys are not only being entertained but building relationships.  

“My oldest just turned 4 and asks me every day if his friends are going to be at the gym when we go," she remembers. “I’m a better mom when I get my ‘me time’ and because my husband works a lot of hours, I really only get that time at the YMCA."

The YMCA has made a positive impact on Martin’s family by providing her with the space to invest in herself both physically and mentally. She said she is the strongest she’s been and has a place to relieve stress.  

“I’m a better mom the days we get to go to the YMCA," she said. 

She said there isn’t really another place like the YMCA in their area. There are many resources and activities for kids but also family activities at the YMCA.  

“We love being able to go to both locations depending on if we all want to swim, play Racquetball, or workout while the kids play," she said. 

Because they go when childcare is available, Martin has met a lot of other moms that bring their kids at the same time.