The Dancel Y in Ellicott City

★Lùm Xùm

Stay Away – Extremely Unfair Agreement & Terrible Customer Service I had a very frustrating experience at The Dancel Y in Ellicott City. The staff was rude, dismissive, and showed zero respect for members. They treat people like cash machines rather than valued customers. When I tried to resolve a simple issue, their attitude was cold and unhelpful. What truly shocked me is their Membership Agreement. It is one of the most one-sided, customer-hostile contracts I have ever seen. After reading it carefully, I warn everyone: Major Problems with Their Agreement: Dangerous Liability Waiver: You are forced to sign away virtually all your legal rights. The agreement makes you “waive, release, and forever discharge” The Y from any and all claims for injury, illness, or even death — even if caused by their own negligence, poor maintenance, faulty equipment, or unsafe conditions. This waiver is ridiculously broad and heavily protects the Y at the expense of your safety. Indemnification Trap: If you or your family ever try to hold them accountable, you agree to pay all their legal fees and costs. This is outrageous and predatory. Non-Refundable & Hard to Cancel: All fees are completely non-refundable. You must give 10 business days written notice just to cancel your membership. They can keep charging you even if you never use the facility. Automatic Payment Abuse: They have full authority to keep drafting money from your account. Failed payments result in $25 penalties and repeated attempts to withdraw. They Own Your Images: They can use your photos and videos for any advertising or commercial purpose without your permission or compensation. This agreement is designed to trap members and shield the Y from almost any responsibility. It feels more like a legal trap than a fair membership contract. If you’re considering joining The Dancel Y, read every single word of their agreement before signing. What looks like an affordable gym comes with serious risks and almost no protection for you as a customer. I will never return and advise others to look elsewhere for a gym.

★★★★★Donna Stevenson

I started coming after a long break from exercise, so the first week was challenging. Trainers guided me with a simple plan instead of overwhelming instructions, which helped a lot. One treadmill was under maintenance for a short period, but it was clearly marked and replaced quickly. The gym isn’t luxurious, but it’s reliable for daily workouts and helps maintain consistency without pressure.

★★Lindsey

Tried a free trial this past weekend because this gym is closer to where I live versus the Planet Fitness over on 40. I really wanted to like this place but we were met with hostility from the moment we walked in. One of the front office staff was rude and talked down to us throughout getting us set up for the trial. Admitted she purposely does not answer the phone. I was ready to turn around and go home after two minutes but I was trying to give this place benefit of the doubt. The weights room was cramped. Granted we went at a busy time so I understand that aspect but the machines themselves were too close for comfort for me. People stared. Doesn’t seem like people in that gym mind their own business. Giving this place 2 starts though because the cardio equipment is great - I wish other gyms would have machines with screens because treadmills on their own are so boring. Otherwise, this place just didn’t check off enough on my list for me to switch over memberships. Guess I’ll stick with my PF membership for now.

★★★★★Youssef Salloum

The YMCA provides an outstanding environment for families and individuals alike. The staff is welcoming and professional, the facilities are always clean and well-maintained, and the programs truly build a sense of community. It’s a place where health, wellness, and connection come together in the best way.

★★★★★King Woren

I’ve been coming here for about two years. A year ago, I would’ve rated it 3 stars because the courts were very dusty and hard to play on. Now, they’ve improved a lot, there is much less dust, more open gym time, and space for volleyball and pickleball. The staff is friendly and professional, when I rolled my ankle, the manager handled it very well and I also like how they have this program “teen day”, it’s a fun day with activities in the gym, plus many games and snack to have a fun time with some friends or make friends. The gym equipment isn’t the best, but it works. Overall, it’s a welcoming place and worth the price.