Autumn is the perfect time for unique, outdoor events. Across the U.S. rec centers are getting creative with cost-effective fall programming for members and their families.
One example is the Spring Valley YMCA in Pennsylvania which is hosting its annual Fall Boot Camp on October 15. Adults and children will be using typical fall items, such as hay bales, gourds, corn stalks and pumpkins, in their exercises. For instance, a parent can use a full-sized pumpkin as a kettlebell while a child uses a smaller gourd.
The idea resulted from wanting to repurpose the decorations of the YMCA’s Halloween Trail while also utilizing the outdoor space.
“First, we buy all of these fall items with a piece of the budget for the Halloween Trail and use them to set up a photo station for the event,” explained Jacquelyn Gallagher, the group exercise director. “Then, we repurpose them to use them for the bootcamp. After the boot camp, we’ll repurpose it again, and we create a nice entryway display for our members. They loved it last year and would take photos whenever they came into the building. We utilize this stuff a total of three different ways.”
Gallagher emphasized how this fall event is ultimately meant to encourage health and community for Spring Valley YMCA members. Being cost-effective and repurposing various decorations is a plus.
“You have fun a lot of fun when you’re a kid,” said Gallagher. “We want to bring that fun to adulthood as well. So, we like to find programming children can participate in, like our Fall Boot Camp. It’s a great way to bring parents and kids together through working out. Fitness as a family is important, and we’ve been able to cultivate that here.”
Rec centers around the country have found other ways to plan fun fall programming for a low cost. Here are a few examples.
Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan
New York, New York
The JCC will be hosting a meditative fall nature walk on October 22. Leaders will guide participants through areas of Central Park to admire the fall beauty while practicing meditation techniques.
Along with breath awareness, members will practice in journaling and text study while admiring the changing leaves and natural beauty of the park. Bringing your own notepad and water bottle is also encouraged.
Lionville Community YMCA
Exton, Pennsylvania
The Lionville YMCA, a branch of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, will be hosting a floating pumpkin patch. Floating pumpkin patches have become a trend for community rec centers because it’s a family friendly, aquatics event for a relatively low-cost.
On October 21, each participant will be able to “pick” a pumpkin floating in the pool to take home. Costumes are encouraged outside of swim time.
Events like this are also a great opportunity to introduce or further engage members with available aquatic programming.
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is hosting a craft workshop where participants will make a wreath out of colorful fall leaves. Attendees will also learn about why leaves change colors.
The event will be held at Grayson Highlands State Park. While this program is intended for younger children, it’s also marketed as an activity for the whole family.
After the workshop, families will be able to take their wreaths home, alongside their new knowledge about autumn leaves.
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