Stork Family YMCA

Negative experience: Morning staff has poor customer service skills. Tells you everything is online or in an email and does not want to be helpful (to seniors). What were you hired for if not to be helpful to members face to face with good attitude.

Fantastic experience: Veryveryvery gooooodo

Negative experience: Avoid using the gym during any shift when Aladdin is working. He tends to disrupt workouts by focusing on minor issues that aren’t relevant to most lifters. I was doing squats on the Smith machine barefoot when, out of nowhere, he approached me and insisted that I wear shoes, even though squatting barefoot can be beneficial for those who experience knee pain with shoes. It’s hard to believe he’s a certified trainer. He also interrupted another gym member for not using safety clips on the barbell during bench pressing, despite the fact that using clips in this scenario can be risky. Without clips, it’s easier to tilt and slide the weights off in an emergency if you lose control of the bar. Ironically, Aladdin doesn’t seem to mind when others leave the leg press machine loaded with weights, failing to unstack them after use. If you’re looking for a stress-free and uninterrupted workout, it’s best to avoid times when he’s on duty. The rest of the YMCA staff are far less intrusive and don’t hover during your sessions.

Fantastic experience: Nice gym

Fantastic experience: Super friendly staff! Nice place for everything family!

Negative experience: They never answer the phone - plus the adult gym schedule doesn’t show kids day camp - called 3 times no pick up, and it’s a blank space from 430-630, but I knew there would be something in the gym… however I can’t confirm anything so I always have to drive there to check it out. Ridiculous service should not be paying this much for a membership where there are no staff working

Fantastic experience: I was here to replace a damaged fibre optic cable. Place was hopping! It's a great complex to get your sweat on. Young and old , something for all ages.

Positive experience: Just ok. Have had a plus membership for almost a year. Compared to the YMCA London the 'Plus changerooms' at Storm are like a one star. London men's plus has shavers, shaving cream, lotions, dedicated whirlpool, huge stock of towels, computer/business station. It's the small details that make the difference. Today went swimming at 1:30 pm for the swim that ended at 2 pm. Lifeguard asked me to leave at 1:50 pm because they had to remove the lane-ropes ... Apparently that's the way it is 'in the summer'. Guard suggested management should probably list the correct hours. I agree. My '25 minute swim' turned into 15 minutes which isn't worth my time. Overall a nice facility. Clean. Seems heavily used and engaging the community well. Plus memberships could be a whole lot more worthwhile with a little more effort.

Fantastic experience: Friendly staff and a good clean place to exercise

Negative experience: As some as the other reviewers have posted, they simply do not answer the phone. Waiting 48 - 72 hours to speak to someone for a general inquiry is bit much. Other YMCA’s have found a way to answer the phones… Perhaps thinking creatively and focusing on a solution that will mitigate against high call volumes while still giving an acceptable level of customer service will eventually be taken off the back burner. So pretty please, with a cherry on top… Answer your phone!!

Fantastic experience: Great social place, those who are more than wonderful, love to help others, and can communicate with all languages.

Fantastic experience: An excellent facility with good staff. Though I wish there was more activities for adults during hours in which a working adult would be able to attend. Gym is large and has good machines, from rowing machines, treadmills, various weight machines.

Fantastic experience: There's a new skatepark here, it skates really good! Only bowls, one big and one small.

Fantastic experience: The library….

Fantastic experience: Decent location. Very clean and friendly staff.

Fantastic experience: Their knowledge and helpfulness made my visit seamless. The front desk area was consistently tidy, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Kudos to the YMCA front desk team for their dedication to excellence!

Negative experience: You need to pick up a call

Fantastic experience: Good array of fitness equipment and classes. There is a very welcoming pickleball community

Fantastic experience: I really like this place! It is really great! The staff at the location is amazing, they are very friendly and are always willing to help you with anything that you need. You can enjoy the use of the gym, the library, and the swimming pool that the center has to offer. It is usually a place where my 2 younger brothers and my uncle go to work out together when I go there. If you are looking for energetic activities, then I recommend you check out this place. 04/16/2024

Positive experience: It was a good experience but its nothing too special

Fantastic experience: Awesome place to have in your arsenal. It's a one stop for library, pool and gym.

Positive experience: too pricey compared to private competitors

Positive experience: Overall pretty good ymca, only had a couple bad experiences over the last 2 years

Fantastic experience: I've been coming here since it opened when I was a child. Library is great, facilities are great, gym is decent, price is quite expensive.

Positive experience: It's always so incredibly busy!!! Parking with a young person is challenging here.

Fantastic experience: Great place to get healthy.

Positive experience: The Stork Family YMCA is a multifaceted fitness and community center that truly caters to a diverse range of interests. The facility offers an extensive array of amenities, making it a one-stop destination for health, recreation, and community engagement. The gym facilities at Stork Family YMCA are noteworthy, equipped with a variety of state-of-the-art machines and equipment, accommodating fitness enthusiasts of all levels. The well-maintained and spacious layout provides an inviting environment for a productive workout. Stork Family YMCA also has a swimming pool and versatile courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton and others. These facilities not only enhance the overall fitness experience but also foster a sense of camaraderie among members engaging in team sports. Diversity takes center stage at Stork Family YMCA with dance classes, yoga classes and other group activities available. Whether you're looking to perfect your dance moves or engage in a friendly game, the center offers ample opportunities for social interaction and skill development. The addition of a library is a unique touch, providing a quiet space for members to unwind or catch up on reading between workouts. This thoughtful inclusion encourages a holistic approach to well-being, acknowledging the importance of mental stimulation and relaxation. For those seeking a culinary experience, the on-site restaurant at Stork Family YMCA offers a range of healthy and delicious options. This adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing members to refuel without having to leave the premises. The staff at Stork Family YMCA deserves commendation for their friendly and accommodating demeanor. From the front desk to the fitness instructors, everyone contributes to creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages members to pursue their fitness goals with confidence. In conclusion, Stork Family YMCA is not just a fitness center; it's a vibrant community hub that promotes holistic well-being. The thoughtful integration of diverse facilities, combined with attentive staff and a welcoming atmosphere, sets it apart as a top-notch destination for individuals and families alike. Whether you're focused on fitness, community engagement, or a bit of both, Stork Family YMCA delivers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

Negative experience: The employees here will harass you if your not even doing anything wrong. If they dont like you they will make situations up and exaggerate things to demonize anyone they DONT like. Have accused me of harassing employees and not being safe when ive done nothing wrong. Definitely not accepting of all or welcoming. Going here gives me unnecessary anxiety.

Negative experience: Please be aware they have lock period of 6 months once you register, they will not tell you this at the time of registration and once you register they won’t let you cancel till 6 months. Also most of there program are very hard to book like swim lessons and pickleball and are very crowded. So basically what you are paying is just for gym and crowded swimming.

Fantastic experience: Good service

Fantastic experience: Very nice clean facility. Has a towel service. Big gym for basketball then a gym room with tons of equipment. I don't find it overly busy. They have daycare as well. Very affordable

Fantastic experience: Check out the Titans Skills Academy. Train with a Pro!

Fantastic experience: Friendly, helpful staff.

Positive experience: 가족 함께 이용할수 있게 배려된 수영장, 1층 도서관, 실내 농구연습가능, 유아놀이 프로그램 등 준비되 있어.. 2층 피트니스룸,요가룸과 2트랙(런닝,워킹) 도 이용 가능. 건물옆 충분한 주차장

Positive experience: It is good but since reopening after Covid they have severely reduced the programs on offer and what you can sign up for to the point of uselessness. They are also way understaffed and premises, specially changing rooms really dirty.

Fantastic experience: A very convenient and safe place for children's activities. If you have a child aged 5-6, I recommend Lincoln R. for swimming lessons. He is very professional and gets along very well with children. My son Maksim loves it very much.

Fantastic experience: My baby is Happy so far , the swimming lessons are only once a week which is my main complaint, kids need it more for their learning and mental health in winter time especially

Fantastic experience: The staff and volunteers at the Stork Family, Waterloo YMCA are wonderful. The instructors have great energy and are accommodating, supportive, and encouraging of all activity and ability levels. The facilities are very clean and well kept. The pool is a little on the small side with only 4 lanes for lane swim, but otherwise the temperature and chlorination levels are very comfortable. Other patrons are also very kind and supportive. A very positive vibe. Membership is little bit expensive and you can choose three different packages based on your needs ; Classic- $28 Biweekly+ Tax Customized- $28 + 3.50 Biweekly+ Tax Complete- $38

Fantastic experience: Very clean place, great helpful staff. Lacking in some weights and gym equipment but a great place for the kids to join different programs

Fantastic experience: Clean well-run facility with a well curated selection of weight training equipment. Staff was friendly and helpful on my first visit and the pricing is reasonable.

Fantastic experience: I love this place, love this community, I will never forget playing basketball, running, fitness and swimming here, highly recommended.

Negative experience: Terrible experience - Don’t bother signing up here as they never have spots to accommodate members for swim lessons or any other activities. All spots are always full and the staff could care less about it. Poor customer service - utter waste of money.

Negative experience: Ok staffs.

Negative experience: Never picks up calls. told them to cancel my membership they said yes but they still make me pay /expensive/ wait times for pool are 2 weeks minimum

Fantastic experience: There is so many activities to keep the family busy!!

Fantastic experience: Always positive experience, made to feel welcome. Clean environment, great work outs great equipment!

Fantastic experience: good

Fantastic experience: Great gym and library

Fantastic experience: Friendly

Fantastic experience: Great facility with polite staff.

Fantastic experience: Stork is more like a second home to us. The facility is clean and has a positive vibe to it. The staff is nice and always ready to help . Also, there is a library in the building, which is a big advantage. Me and my wife go to the gym while our son does his activities . It works out well for all of us. I totally recommend Stork YMCA for people from all age groups .

Fantastic experience: Great gym

Positive experience: It's great place. Just need more toys for kids.

Positive experience: Installations are great, and so is the staff. But only 30 minute swimming lessons a week is not worth all the trouble... You seriously spend more time in the showers than the actual class.

Fantastic experience: Amazing overall experience. Library, swimming pool, gym, along with food. The staff is friendly and always suggests every customer according to needs, which is wonderful . Three cheers for the management.

Fantastic experience: Excellent gym, up-to-date equipment, knowledgeable staff and trainers. Even has a library branch attached to exercise your brain afterwards! This will be my main gym for the foreseeable future.

Positive experience: I have been a member of the Stork Family Y for just over a year now and it has been the integral part of a measured plan for recovering more control over mobility as a person with physical challenges from disability and on a limited budget. The staff are committed to our community, bright, cheerful, optimistic and friendly in all aspects of customer service and trainers are professional and available to all levels beginner to experienced to help us to reach our physical goals safely and optimally using the equipment at hand. The classes are always a good addition to any wellness program. The place is always clean and well serviced and although rare, the community is well informed of possible interruption to schedules in a timely manner. I would recommend this facility highly and say it is comparable in cost to other facilities but the difference is that it always has been in the dna of the Y philosophy to give back to the community in so many ways including after school programs and Summer or day camps which is part of the cycle of community building so it certainly isn’t about monetary profit, more like community benefit with an open invitation to participate for not only our own physical, emotional and mental health and in turn contribute to the foundation of any community. I am glad to be a small part in this Stork Family Y and have enjoyed the time spent here. I hope this is helpful and that all is well with you and yours. They just announced a new equipment purchase to upgrade some of the equipment and if you don’t like the equipment at your Y for being outdated or “not the latest” then you can always choose to be proactive - the Y accepts donations as well as suggestions. THANK YOU to all the staff at Stork Family Y for being a big part of my “family” and community. Be well.

Fantastic experience: Perfect place for family with kids!

Fantastic experience: Real Jamaican food that's well prepared.

Positive experience: Great facility, family friendly. Lots of activities to do and it's well maintained and clean.

Fantastic experience: Love the warm pool, really convenient having the library and the y in the same building

Fantastic experience: Great location and friendly stuff here

Negative experience: It’s not a proper gym. It’s more like a community centre for seniors and kids. During peak hours in the afternoon and evening, there are many groups of teenagers hanging around the very small weights area and no staff is on the floor to oversee things. The pools are quite busy and crowded most of the time. Their opening hours are short compared to other gyms and the fee is quite expensive for the lack of equipment and small gym facilities. Who is this YMCA good for? Families with kids who attend kids classes. Seniors who attend the senior yoga and Zumba classes and pickle ball. People who live near by. People who can get fee assistance for low income. People who want to play basketball. People who want to swim (lane sharing).

Fantastic experience: Great experience!!

Fantastic experience: Great place, perfect

Negative experience: Price keeps going up, and the hours are terrible. I am now paying more for less.

Fantastic experience: Professional, attentive, helpful personnel.

Fantastic experience: Clean and spacious facilities. Friendly staff. Modern equipment.

Negative experience: -I was a member for a few years. Gym equipment is limited and dated. -Swimming pool is always busy and you have to share lanes. The gym area is very busy with teenagers in the afternoon. -Basketball court is good. -The hours are terrible; it opens really late and closes very early (specially on weekends). -Steam room is good, except when you have to share the space with this one member named John. He is a very heavy smoker and leaves the steam room and change room smelling disgusting after he uses it. He is also very rude, spits and gets agitated when you ask him to stop. Several members complained but nothing could be done according to staff. -It is also overpriced.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely love going here! I visit the adult group sessions they’re wonderful! Joe is amazing and takes care of everyone! The trainers work so hard to keep everyone motivated! Love this place!!!

Fantastic experience: Friendly staff. Nice facility.

Positive experience: Very small facility. The + change rooms have a stream room but no other premium features so I don't feel it's worth it. The pool is large but the gym is not so much.

Fantastic experience: Friendly staff and great facilities! Our 4 y/o love the winning classes and play gym.

Fantastic experience: Great centre with new facilities, plenty of parking and friendly staff.

Fantastic experience: Well designed community oriented facility. Friendly and helpful staff. I go here often, mainly using the library.

Fantastic experience: Wonderful for families!

Fantastic experience: Did everything online was super easy

Negative experience: Cute photos from the weight room area. But why is everyone white?

Fantastic experience: Loved the place. Perfect for the family

Negative experience: Please leave the yoga on Fridays at 10.45am.

Fantastic experience: Very Very good

Fantastic experience: Best place to spend you time and money

Negative experience: Just another reason why I'm thinking of leaving this place. This place took a dive. I am absolutely shocked how good of a rating this place has. Because when it comes to a gym, it's probably the worst gym in all of Waterloo Kitchener Cambridge and Guelph. Not this specific YMCA, but ALOT of them. First of all their prices are absolutely outrageously expensive. I've been a member for 10 years now. It was like 350 bucks per year when we first started, it is now $705.... Because.... electricity went up? Water prices? Paper towel costs? Minimum wage? Or more money in the CEOs pockets.... So not only has the price of a membership increased, but the time availability has decreased, closing down at 8pm.... What fitness center closes down at 8.....only the ymca. Over the phone customer service has basically been removed, gym equipment is either breaking down from lack of maintenance, or completely gone because it broke and they don't think they make enough money to replace it. This place has a grand total of like 6 or 7 treadmills.... I have 9 treadmills at home ( I don't..... if I did I wouldn't be coming here ) what gym in their right mind has less than 10 treadmills....? The YMCA So other than the pool and some Pilates classes that no one takes, I don't really see how the YMCA as a whole is keeping anyone here compared to going to one of their many competitors... say for $150 a yea. But none of my opinion really matters because they're still making money from all the parents who bring their kids here for swimming lessons, so why do better for your gym patrons by spending money, when you could look the other way and just have greater income margins. And yes the reason why they close at 8:00 is not because of covid, but it's because that's basically the end of swimming lessons for the day... So now that they're mainstream of revenue (swimming lessons) is over for the day, the rest of the patrons can eat.... Well you tell me..... I have had multiple communications with people at this place, both staff and members, and everyone who I talk to feel this way, but I don't know why nothing is being done about it.... #Awesome

Fantastic experience: This location has lots to offer all at one spot. Biweekly paid membership maybe a bit on expensive side but in that membership you can get your children or yourself into lots of programs, and thosr programs are not limited to leisure some of them are lessons and workshops too. I have basic membership for my child and he gets weekly swimming lessons, soccer practice, basketball practice plus the running track. I would like to see them add a family membership option too instead of selling individual membership.

Fantastic experience: Went for enquiring about swimming lessons. Friendly staff.. will be back again

Positive experience: It is a wonderful place but is too crowded lately. You hardly can find an open program to join. The staff are nice and helpful but the system needs lots of improvement in terms of organization and number of programs offerd. The online registration is the worst... it does not work at all when you need it... I guess the system pre covid was much better than now. I dont see a reason why the new measures that were introduced during covid is still in place.

Fantastic experience:

Fantastic experience: Nice and spacious. Clean, Hygienic with most of the equipment and amenities

Fantastic experience: Super pour des activités seul ou en famille. Piscine, basket, zumba, gym, marche...

Positive experience: It has a good and clean place for the gym, and the pool and staff are fantastic. Overall I like the place

Fantastic experience: Very nice organize, for kids, and very nice for adults. Gym with tv screen, walking/running track

Negative experience: Never answer their phones

Fantastic experience: I love going to the YMCA. My son does great in swimming lessons and I love the workout area and classes!

Positive experience: Clean and well maintained facilities, but the locker room/shower room is FREEZING. First time we went there for a swim with my 2 year old the kiddie pool which is warm is closed. So we went to the adult pool where the water is cold. And when we went to the shower room it was FREEZING. My daughter was shaking so bad I was so scared. The next day she got a fever…. Also, i enrolled my daughter to their swimming class, and her first day she wasn’t able to come i emailed where they told me to email. And i got no response at all….. i also try to call all the time for questions, but nothing. I’m thinking of withdrawing my daughter from the program…. It’s hard to reach them via email and phone. I don’t drive at all so going there for changing schedules or for questions isn’t an option.

Positive experience: Steam in the VIP change room and newer machines make it very attractive but it is smaller compared to the Kitchener one

Fantastic experience:

Fantastic experience: Good facility with a lot of options.

Fantastic experience: Well thought out facility, suitable for a wide variety of needs and interests. Staff are kind and accommodating.

Fantastic experience: A great workout!! The instructor was great!!

Fantastic experience: Affordable and quality items