London YMCA

By Nathan DeWitt

This picture is taken from the top story of the four-level facility, overlooking the badminton courts and cardio machines. 

       Fitness is an important part of my daily life in the United States and I did not want to give that up for a month while in London. I decided to purchase a one-month student membership to the YMCA on Great Russell Street, just a few blocks from our flat. 
       This was the first YMCA in the world, built in 1844. I was surprised to see how similar this YMCA was to recreation centers and gyms in the US, considering there are  plenty of other things in England that are very different from America. From the badminton courts to the tread mills to the membership sign-up process itself, it was all very much the same as something I am used to seeing at home. It was similar in size and number of weights and machines to the Fort Worth YMCA, as well. 
       The five-story building consists of three courts, a swimming pool, men's and women's locker rooms, pilates rooms, full weight room, cafe, and more. It was recently upgraded to the tune of 2.3 million pounds and is now very nice. I would highly recommend this YMCA to anyone, as the staff and customers are very helpful and friendly.