One of the wonderful things about working at the Y is that there are so many opportunities to find a place to share your gifts across the many programs and activities that are offered. For Dan Sirrine, that means taking his interest in cycling and channeling it in a way to help others as a group fitness instructor. For three years, Dan has led indoor cycling classes at the Whitaker Family YMCA, allowing him to stay engaged in his own wellness while also bringing others, you might say, along for the ride. “I try to challenge every participant to achieve their fitness goal - whatever level they are,” Dan shares. Fitness level is one consideration as participants join class, and so too is age. Dan is aware of this and offers that, “indoor cycling classes are excellent for any age group but can be especially effective for adults seeking a low-impact but medium-to-high intensity workout.”
During his years as a Y member before becoming an instructor, Dan was a regular in the bicycle seat at all the classes at the Whitaker Family YMCA, and many at the High Street YMCA. His experience even turned into a family affair a few years ago when his daughter was hired as a YMCA summer camp counselor. Through these experiences, he’s become well acquainted with the mission and work of the organization, and says he appreciates how the YMCA provides “a number of programs to the community to promote wellness, fitness and leadership.”
Outside of the Y, Dan is a member of the Bluegrass Cycling Club, where he actively rides and enjoys taking photos throughout the surrounding area. This sometimes inspires how he leads his participants as he tries to relate his classes to riding outdoors.
Dan teaches weekly at the Whitaker Family YMCA and welcomes all levels. Additionally, Dan occasionally offers introductory classes for new cyclists to get acquainted with the bike and learn about cycling. His passion for this format and ability to include everyone makes him such a valuable part of the YMCA instructor team! Indoor cycling classes are free with your YMCA membership; check the schedule here to get started.
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