July 2022 Instructor of the Month - Ellen Bond
The YMCA of Parkersburg's Instructor of the Month is designed to help you get to know the instructors that help make our Y community great, from our group fitness instructors to the coaches of our various programs. This month, we are sitting down with Ellen Bond, our Silver Sneakers Instructor and Lifeguard. Let’s get to know her:
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself: what are some fun facts about you?
I moved here from North Carolina , a year ago February 28th, to help out my 92 year old father. We live in Marietta, where I attended high school. My dad worked for DuPont as a research chemist. I have 2 girls in North Carolina, ages 33 & 34. I am an identical twin. We grew up as swimmers.
2. What do you teach at the YMCA of Parkersburg? Tell us a little bit about it.
Presently I teach Silver Sneakers and lifeguard. My specialty is in aquatics though, teaching water aerobics and swim lessons. I’ve done that most of my adult life.
3. When and why did you become an instructor? What's your teaching style?
I attended college at OU and ECU, in Greenville, North Carolina. My degree was in physical education. I wanted to be a swim coach, which I was until I realized I needed health insurance. Then I branched off to a hospital run fitness center in Pinehurst, North Carolina. I was a professional triathlete when the sport was still young in the late 70’s, early 80’s. I’ve always enjoyed exercising and like to share that passion with others. My style is different in the pool cause it is hard to fall when you are in the water. I do keep it simple and have fun. I am not able to keep track of complicated choreography. Simple and effective is what I like.
5. What is your most favorite part of teaching at the YMCA of Parkersburg?
What I enjoy most about teaching anywhere is hoping everyone has fun and they leave feeling like they have had a good workout. The folks at the Parkersburg YMCA like to have fun. They are a close group and make me feel welcome!
For more information about our fitness classes please visit our website.