The Alexandria Area YMCA just added brand-new, premium strength equipment to our main fitness floor.
We know that seeing unfamiliar, shiny gear can feel a bit intimidating. No one wants to stand on the fitness floor feeling confused or self-conscious.
We want you to feel completely comfortable and confident when you visit us. This gear is built to help you stay strong, whether you are training for a sport or exercising to have the energy to keep up with your kids.
To take away the guesswork, our team filmed three quick tutorial videos. They show you exactly how to safely adjust and operate the three newest machines on the floor.
1. The Glute Machine
This machine targets your lower body safely without straining your back. Our Health and Wellness Director, Tammi Pauly, and Personal Training Coordinator, Autumn Marshall, show you how it works:
- Look for Yellow: The adjustment points on all of our machines are yellow. Pull the yellow knob to move the chest pad until you can lean into it comfortably.
- Adjust the Weight: The weight stack jumps by 15 pounds. Turn the top dial to add smaller 5 or 10-pound steps if you want an easier transition.
- Slow and Controlled: Grip the handles, place your right heel flat against the foot pedal, and press straight back. Focus on a steady muscle squeeze.
- The Quick Switch: Ready for the left leg? Just flip the foot pedal over to the other side and keep moving.
2. The Ground Base Multi-Squat Machine
Free-weight barbells can feel scary if you are working out alone. This machine gives you the benefits of heavy lifting with a built-in safety net that protects your joints.
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Choose Your Grip: Stand on the platform facing whichever way feels best. Use the lower handles for a deeper stretch, or the higher handles for a shallower path.
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Single-Leg Squats: Place one foot back onto the elevated rear pad. This allows you to perform a safe, supported Bulgarian split squat without losing your balance.
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Safe Deadlifts: Turn around and face the opposite direction to perform deadlifts. This setup keeps the weight close to your center of gravity to protect your spine.
3. The Glute Drive Machine
Traditional hip thrusts require balancing a heavy, awkward metal bar across your lap on the floor. This machine replaces all that hassle with a comfortable, padded seatbelt system.
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Buckle Up: Sit on the bench, pull the heavy-duty safety belt across your lap, and click it in. Place your feet completely flat on the wide steel platform.
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Unlock the Weight: Drive your hips up toward the ceiling to lift the weight. Then, pull the side handles back to unlock the machine so you can move freely.
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Lock It Safely: Lower your hips smoothly, then press back up through your heels. When you finish, push the side handles forward to lock the weight before unbuckling.
Our YMCA Trainers Are Here to Help
You never have to navigate your fitness journey alone here in Alexandria, Minnesota. Our Y crew is a big family, and we love helping our neighbors succeed.
If you ever feel stuck, or if you just want someone to watch your form for peace of mind, come talk to us. You can find Tammi, Autumn, and our certified trainers right inside the Personal Training office on the fitness floor.
Not a member yet? Join the Alexandria Area YMCA today to explore our brand-new equipment, meet our friendly staff, and find a place where you truly belong.