East Jefferson YMCA

This is a great place to train for weights, swimming, body pump and Zumba. Great time to spend with friends and family.

Very easy to find; it’s the first intersection down from I-​10 & Power and there’s a small sign telling where to turn. Small rectangle outdoor pool looked crowded with kids during the evening hours I was there.
Parking was a hassle — lot is too small for the number of people that visit, so make sure to carpool if you’re going with friends. After the spots fill, cars park on the grass, against the curb, and on the median. There’s only 2 long rows so you can scan the lot waiting for people to walk out, too.
Varied weights and diverse array of equipment, but there weren’t enough set-​ups. (Only one bench press station?) That could be due to the lack of room; there just isn’t enough space here. The location is popular and had a wealth of people every time I visited; members ranged from beginner skill level to expert, but leaned more towardr intermediate to advanced users (though my view may have been skewed by the free weight area I was working out in). Everyone I spoke to (members and employees) was friendly and helpful, though that’s pretty typical of a YMCA.
I did like that there didn’t seem to be too many gym trolls (people prowling through weight rooms trying to hit on members of the opposite sex while they work out). People would smile, answer questions, and chat… but then get back to business.
AWAY Members (members from other states/​cities) can visit 12 times a year. Just bring your membership card and ID and fill out a simple slip of paper for access.

Try the Y. The staff here are the best!