Whether you’re working toward a weight loss goal, looking for some new friends to share your fitness journey or just wanting to get healthier, the YMCA of Greater Omaha offers valuable support for the mind, body and spirit. An active local partner for more than 150 years with 13 current metro Omaha locations, the organization strengthens communities through three main areas of focus — youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
Coming up on its 70th anniversary in 2024, the Maple Street YMCA facility is one of the oldest standing YMCAs in the organization. Through the years, the location has continually strived to find new ways to embody the Y’s founding principles through innovative programming that includes exercise classes, small-group and personal fitness training and fun events like last month’s Powerlifting Classic.
“The success of the Powerlifting Classic is a testament to the power of collaboration and the social benefits that can arise from bringing a few individuals together with a shared vision,” said Lindy Pfingsten, senior executive director of the Maple Street YMCA and Butler-Gast YMCA. “A few of our members expressed their desire to revive this event, which they had initially organized a couple decades ago. They put in the hard work to make it happen, and the result was an incredible event run entirely by dedicated volunteers.”
Organizer John Jones took part in his very first powerlifting meet in downtown Omaha back in 1972, spearheading the Maple Street YMCA Powerlifting Classic after a 20-year hiatus as a way to share his passion for fitness with others.
“John sought to create an event that would not only celebrate the sport of lifting, but also bring the community together and inspire individuals of all ages to test their limits and achieve greatness,” Pfingsten said. “He said it was his way of giving back, because he received so much from his own relationships at the Y.”
The Powerlifting Classic attracted participants across a wide range of ages and ability levels.
“What made it so special was the sense of camaraderie and support among all the participants,” said YMCA senior membership director George Tintera. “It wasn't about competing against each other, but rather pushing themselves to reach their personal goals. Witnessing each individual give their all and having the entire room cheer them on was an extraordinary experience.”
“It showed that people can come together, support each other and take care of themselves,” Pfingsten said. “Inclusivity is a core value at the Y, and we welcome everyone to be a part of our community. We had a 15-year-old and a 76-year-old — proof positive that you can do anything you put your mind to at any age.”
The Powerlifting Classic was well received by YMCA members as a complement to their regular workouts all year long.
“Powerlifting at the Y is all about getting strong, having fun and being part of a community that supports your lifting journey,” said participant Linda Jess. “It's where you can find your lifting tribe and make memories that will last a lifetime.”
For more information, go to metroymca.org.
