White Bear Lake Area YMCA

The facility has always been clean which was very important to me. I was concerned that I would get sick working out indoors at a gym this winter- but I have stayed healthier than last winter when my focus was running outdoors. There is a good variety of classes. I actually drive 20-30 min to workout at the YMCA because I can't find classes locally that fit a full-time work schedule...I have evenings, mornings and weekends off. Staff has been very helpful. They make sure any issues are addressed well so that it really is something that reduces stress and doesn't add to it. I took a few years off from the YMCA and their focus on improving mental health is evident. Sound bath and meditation are a really cool additions to their schedules. I have also seen free services such as fitness assessments w/body scan, nutrition counseling, etc. Other locations have community accupuncture, or are available to expand your options. They have opportunities to gather socially and also give experience in the community, such as zoo tickets.

Rob, the morning check in guy, is literally holding the place together. Never is he not in a good mood. This man deserves a plaque dedicated to him and his loveliness.

Due to poor experience at a nearby YMCA I switched to this location. They are far more friendly to people and are good with scheduling. They post the schedules for the pool, workout group times and racquetball requests. I love this place and feel it's far better. The few times I've had issue with racquetball courts the staff have addressed the other people and showed that I reserved the court for the time. I've spoken to the managers about the pool and they always have lanes open for open swim while giving the groups decent room to exercise. The gym is also very clean in the locker rooms and exercise areas. I am thankful for this gym not judging me immediately or letting other customers have higher priority. There is definitely more equal age range between older folk and middle to teenagers age range compared to my former gym. I definitely recommend this gym.

its decent, the staff is friendly they dont have an egym. that doesn't bother me. the gym seems older, the lockers are rusty. but overall a great workout still. moved to a three as i watched 2 trainers working with clients and they did not have them wipe down the machines. gross!!!

This YMCA offers a solid fitness experience, though there are a few things visitors should be aware of before arriving. On the positive side, the facility has plenty of workout equipment, from cardio machines to weight training options, making it easy to find space even during busy times. Whether you’re doing a solo workout or joining a class, the gym seems well-equipped to meet a range of fitness needs. However, navigating the facility can be a bit confusing, especially for first-time visitors. There was no visible signage or map available, which made it difficult to find certain areas, such as the locker rooms or specific workout sections. A posted directory or clearer labeling would go a long way in improving the overall user experience. Regarding lockers, it’s important to bring your own lock for use in the locker rooms, as they do not provide them. There are also a few lockers available outside the locker rooms that don’t require a lock or a quarter, which is convenient—though we did accidentally insert a quarter into one, and unfortunately, there was no way to retrieve it. Overall, the White Bear Area YMCA has the essential features of a good workout space, but small improvements in signage and clearer locker instructions could make it much more user-friendly. If you’re prepared ahead of time, it’s a great place to break a sweat.