Staying Fit Through the Holidays Just Got Easier
For Debra, the holiday season used to be a time of worry—about her health, her weight, and what the future might hold. But everything changed when she said yes to the YMCA of Greensboro Maintain Don’t Gain holiday wellness challenge that became a turning point in her life.
“My doctor told me if I didn’t exercise and lose weight, I was going to die,” Debra said. That serious warning led her to the YMCA’s PRep program. Through this wellness program, she discovered the Y’s supportive environment—and later, the Maintain Don’t Gain Holiday Fitness Challenge.
The first challenge she joined, during the 2023–2024 season, was all about getting started. “I told myself I could maintain and not gain if I just exercised and practiced portion control,” she said. Within the first week, she dropped four pounds—and more importantly, she discovered a routine she could stick with and a community that cared.
Debra began working out daily and built new habits with help from YMCA team members and Y members. “The Ragsdale Y staff created a supportive and encouraging environment. I connected with a community,” Debra shared.
Since starting the Maintain Don’t Gain Challenge, Debra has lost over 120 pounds—a transformation that began with small steps during the holidays.
Each year, her goals evolved. The first challenge focused on building habits. The second was about accountability. “I was tempted to cheat, but I didn’t because I knew weekly weigh-ins were coming,” she said. “This time, I’m focused on strength training, and I have a personal trainer to help me.”
Even the weekly wellness challenges helped her grow. “One week we had to do a plank. I couldn’t get on the floor, but the Wellness Director showed me how to do it against a wall. That support made all the difference.”
Debra now proudly weighs herself daily with confidence. “This year I was thrilled to be named one of the top scanners at the Ragsdale Family YMCA. I followed through with my commitment to move every day.”
When asked if she’d recommend the challenge to others, Debra’s answer is clear:
“Absolutely. The Y gave me a community that cheers me on. It helped me take control of my health—and stick with it.”
Find Your Community
Join the YMCA’s Maintain Don’t Gain Holiday Fitness Challenge and commit to your health this season! Stay active, eat well, and build habits that last—with the support of trained wellness professionals and your Y community.