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Tag: health & wellness

Personal Trainers

Personal Trainers Dow Bay Area Family YMCA Personal Training will give your fitness an upgrade! All personal trainers either have a 4 year degree in an exercise related field, or have various certifications in CPR, AED, Sports and Fitness, and Personal Training. Whatever your specific needs are, we can work with you by helping to identify your goals and then custom designing a workout plan centered around those goals. Our trainers are passionate about what they do. They are here for you, offering motivation, encouragement, and accountability every step of the way to a new you. We want to see you succeed, which is why we provide hour and half-hour-long personal training sessions. INTERESTED? FILL OUT A PERSONAL TRAINER REQUEST FORM Justin Grandy TRAIN WITH JUSTIN–25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE Stronger. Smarter. Built for You. Justin stepped into his first gym 25 years ago and instantly knew it would change his life. Since then, he’s trained alongside bodybuilders, powerlifters, athletes, and everyday people looking to build healthier, stronger lifestyles. A decade ago, coaching a 13‑year‑old national wrestler sparked his passion for helping others reach their full potential. That moment led him to earn his ACE Certification and expand his ability to train clients safely and effectively. With a deep background in fitness, business management, and client development, Justin brings a professional, personalized approach to every session. He works with clients of all ages and experience levels, focusing on sustainable progress, proper technique, and long‑term results. Whether your goal is strength, endurance, weight loss, or overall health—Justin is ready to help you get there.Build confidence. Build strength. Build your best self. Certifications: ACE Certified Personal Trainer (Since 2018) ACE Certified Functional Specialist (Since 2022) American Red Cross AED/CPR Certified (Since 2018) TRX Functional Training Certified (Since 2019) TRX Suspension Training Certified (Since 2020) RockTape Kinesiology Tape Practitioner Certified (Since 2019) RockPods Practitioner Certified (Since 2020) RockFloss Practitioner Certified (Since 2020) Limited Availability Kara Hagerl Wellness Experience Director11 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE I’m a personal trainer who specializes in strength training for beginners, prenatal and postnatal fitness, and helping people feel confident starting, or restarting, their fitness journey. I know firsthand how intimidating exercise can feel, especially when you’re new, pregnant, or returning after time away. My goal is to make strength training feel safe, approachable, and empowering. My own fitness journey began after struggling with weight challenges most of my life and losing 77 pounds through strength training and Group Fitness Classes. That experience shaped how I coach today, with empathy, encouragement, and a strong belief that everyone can build strength. I earned my degree in Exercise Science from Saginaw Valley State University and have spent years coaching clients through group exercise and personal training. I train a variety of clients, designing programs that safely support building strength, recovery, and long-term wellness goals. I also love working with beginners, breaking down movements, building confidence, and creating a strong foundation so clients feel comfortable and successful in the gym. I can also help Prenatal and Postnatal clients, designing programs that safely support pregnancy, recovery, and long-term strength. My coaching style is supportive, and motivating, while still challenging you to grow at your own pace. I believe exercise should never feel like punishment. Strength training should help you feel capable, confident, and strong in your everyday life. Whether you’re preparing for motherhood, rebuilding after pregnancy, or stepping into the gym for the first time, I’m here to guide you, encourage you, and help you build habits that last a lifetime. so, you leave each session feeling accomplished and empowered. Education: B.A. Exercise ScienceMinor PsychologySaginaw Valley State University Certifications: TRX Suspension Training Certified (2015) MAD DOG Athletics Spin Certified (2015) FIT-TOUR Advanced Group Exercise Instructor (2015) AFPA Prenatal & Postpartum Fitness Specialist (2025) Beginner & Advanced Pilates Certified (2025) American Red Cross CPR/BLS Certified (Since 2015) Not currently taking new clients I have been coming the Bay City YMCA since it opened.  I started my Personal Training with Kara Hagerl soon after joining. I have been training with Kara twice a week (most weeks) for over 2 years now. It’s been a wonderful experience. Kara knows how to encourage me while pushing me to do my best. She is aware of my limitations from time to time and is cognizant about challenging me in healthy ways. I am feeling stronger and more confident in my body as a result. She holds me accountable which has been key to my success. I’m grateful for her support.  – Shannon I hired Kara (twice) for a package of ten 30-minute personal training sessions. I wasn’t sure which trainer I wanted to work with at first, but Kara gave me a tour of the facility, and after spending 15 minutes with her, I knew she was the trainer for me. From a physical standpoint, Kara kept every workout interesting, challenging, fresh, and never repeated. I felt she tailored the workouts based on my goals and fitness level. She was knowledgeable, patient and fun.  But the real magic happened from a mental standpoint. Kara pushed me to do things I didn’t think I could do. She helped me to believe in myself, to believe in my own strength and power. She pushed me…HARD! But she also encouraged and reassured me. She even worked out with me sometimes for camaraderie! My sessions with her were worth every dollar and minute spent, and I will definitely purchase more in the future. I highly recommend working with Kara as a personal trainer if you want to reach your goals, have accountability, but also feel like you’ve got someone cheering you on the whole time, too! – Marcie Andrea Grandy Personal Trainer I was introduced to the fitness world by complete luck. At 15 I was scheduled to take a P.E. Lifting class which at that time I didn’t know would change my life. As a Senior I taught this same class as a Teaching Assistant to the underclassman. After high school I spent a

YMCA CLOSED JANUARY 29TH

YMCA Facility Update 

We’re happy to share that the Y will resume normal hours January 30th at 5:00 AM. Our 24/7 Fitness area will reopen , January 29th at 9:00 PM. 

Download the PDF
  • Reservations are for members only.

  • Reservations can be made up to 5 days in advance or until one hour before the class starts. If you wish to reserve a spot within one hour before class starts, please call the MEMBER SERVICE DESK.

  • Please be on time for your reservation. If you are late for your appointment, you will not get additional time. (e.g. your reserved lap swim time is 9am-9:45am, but you do not get in the pool until 9:20am, your reservation still ends at 9:45am.)

  • Reservations can also be made at the MEMBER SERVICE DESK or by calling us at 989.895.8596

  • There are daily/weekly limits on some classes/areas to give opportunities to other members. The system will let you know if your daily/weekly limit has been reached.

  • If you are unable to attend your reserved appointment, please cancel your appointment online or call the MEMBER SERVICE DESK.

Book Your Spot:

Reservation Reminders:

  • Reservations are for members only.

  • Reservations can be made up to 5 days in advance or until one hour before the class starts. If you wish to reserve a spot within one hour before class starts, please call the Member Service Desk.

  • Please be on time for your reservation. If you are late for your appointment, you will not get additional time. (e.g. your reserved lap swim time is 9am-9:45am, but you do not get in the pool until 9:20am, your reservation still ends at 9:45am.)

  • Reservations can also be made at the Member Service Desk or by calling us at 989.895.8596

  • There are daily/weekly limits on some classes/areas to give opportunities to other members. The system will let you know if your daily/weekly limit has been reached.

  • If you are unable to attend your reserved appointment, please cancel your appointment online or call the Member Service Desk.
Reminders
Instructions
  • Reservations are for members only.

  • Reservations can be made up to 5 days in advance or until one hour before the class starts. If you wish to reserve a spot within one hour before class starts, please call the Member Service Desk.

  • Please be on time for your reservation. If you are late for your appointment, you will not get additional time. (e.g. your reserved lap swim time is 9am-9:45am, but you do not get in the pool until 9:20am, your reservation still ends at 9:45am.)

  • Reservations can also be made at the Member Service Desk or by calling us at 989.895.8596

  • There are daily/weekly limits on some classes/areas to give opportunities to other members. The system will let you know if your daily/weekly limit has been reached.

  • If you are unable to attend your reserved appointment, please cancel your appointment online or call the Member Service Desk.

Financial AsSistance Programs

Individuals will not be turned away from participating in programs, activities, and/or membership due to their inability to pay. The Y maintains a generous financial assistance program for youth, adults, and families who demonstrate financial need. Funding for this program is provided by fundraising events at the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA and community-wide donors.

There is a reduced joining fee. $25 for Youth/Teen, $25 for Adult, and $50 for Household memberships.

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