West Valley YMCA to Hold Open House

Free medical screenings, massages and lectures on health and stress management will be part of the annual open house Saturday at the West Valley Family YMCA.

The event, which is free, features demonstrations of the facility’s various programs such as karate for children and adults, women’s kick-boxing and different types of aerobics, such as step, low-impact and the YMCA’s new class specifically designed for seniors.

“Our annual open house is just a way of letting everybody know what the YMCA has to offer,” said Felicia Hochstein, the organization’s marketing coordinator.

“We offer value-based programs that the entire family can get involved with from infants to senior citizens, and our programs are specifically designed for certain age groups,” Hochstein said.

Those attending will receive an introduction to the 12-week personalized fitness program geared toward the “inactive market” and individuals returning to exercising, she said.

“It’s a motivational exercise program designed by the YMCA to help those wanting to make a healthy lifestyle change but lack the motivation to get started,” Hochstein said.

Country line and ballroom dancing is also on the agenda along with the opening of the YMCA’s new indoor heated pool, which Hochstein said will be used for year-round swimming and water-fitness classes for seniors.

Lunch will be provided by the Canoga Park-based health food store Follow Your Heart Natural Foods Market & Cafe, and will be followed by a demonstration on properly shopping for and preparing a healthful meal.

Saturday’s event, which is expected to draw more than 300 people, takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, contact the West Valley YMCA, 18810 Vanowen St. at (818) 774-2840.