Capital District YMCA - Bethlehem Branch

★★★Patti Staerker

I have yet to go in my 6 months as a member to date and have the smaller pool available for use. When I ask when it is open for free swim, I always get the same response....when there are at least 3 lifeguards on the shift. Well, when is that??? No-one seems to be able to answer when that may be. I also have some concerns about the hot tub as my sister developed a serious infection in her elbow requiring months of treatments including surgery before it healed. If I choose to go in, it is only on the weekends shortly after the weekly Friday cleaning!!

★Matthew Norris

Unfortunately this is the only way corporate might understand the frustrations family’s feel going to swim at this Y. More often than not the “family” pool is not opened due to staffing reasons, families then cannot use the regular pool even if laps are open. This has been going on since we started going. Today my daughter and I were kicked out of the main pool while there were several open lanes not being used. I understand if this is the policy of the YMCA however they have seemingly done nothing to address this persistent staffing issue. The Y is designed for families however it is a burden to even come with the family to swim. I don’t understand why they haven’t adjusted their approach to accommodate families and lap swimmers. The finances in the budget for the staff exist, do something to address this issue. I’m sorry to leave this review but I feel this is the only way the board will hear frustrated families. The weight room is great 5 stars

★★★★Pete M

I go here from Catskill. The building and facilities are really nice. The employees are helpful and friendly. My only complaint is a lack of open swimming, but they are getting better with the schedule.

★Lana

I'm considering joining the Y again for my family, however we live closest to Albany, and I would like to second reviewer Jean who shared a sentiment I've also had since the Albany YMCA closed. In Jean's words - "I am writing to express my deep concern about the closure of the Albany YMCA and how this decision affects underprivileged youth in the community. The closure has created a serious gap in access to essential recreational and developmental programs—especially swimming—which are now primarily available at facilities in Delmar and East Greenbush. These locations largely cater to more affluent, predominantly white communities, and are difficult to access for low-income families in Albany who often lack reliable transportation. This raises serious equity concerns. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to swim and participate in healthy, structured activities, regardless of where they live or their socioeconomic background. I urge you to revisit this decision and consider the long-term impact it will have on the youth of Albany. The YMCA’s mission has always included a commitment to inclusion and community support. Right now, many of us feel that mission is not being upheld. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I hope to see meaningful steps toward restoring access and equity for all children in our area." I share Jean's sentiment. The loss of a pool facility for Albany's youth and families is significant.

★★★★★RalphR

Offers a variety of exercise and selfcare alternatives including multiple types of exercise equipment, weight lifting, swimming, basketball, ice skating, and many others. Several groups of people including pickleball, yoga, Zuma, and others. I participate in pickleball and yoga class regularly. The beginner class for pickleball was very helpful to get started. The yoga instructors have all been good class leaders.