There is a new way for kids to get their exercise at the Manitowoc Two Rivers YMCA.
The Y held a ribbon-cutting on Monday (January 12th) for its new Ninja Zone, a fusion of obstacle-course training, gymnastics, parkour, and character building.
CEO Julie Grossman tells Seehafernews.com that the idea to build the new area out of an old racquetball court came after staff came back from an industry expo and were inspired by what they learned about the program.
She continued to say that the Manitowoc Two Rivers YMCA already has a great gymnastics program.
“This is a really fun and innovative way of expanding it,” she explained. “Especially to kids who don’t really see themselves as gymnasts, that traditionally, maybe boys who don’t want to enter into the gymnast’s world. But ninja, now that’s super cool!”
Right now, their Ninja Zone is built for kids aged 5-8, but could expand in the future.
Grossman described, “As the program grows, we will sign onto the other modules, get the bigger kid equipment, and then move on from there.”
The new course is also considered a class, meaning parents must sign their kids up and can’t just show up to participate.
The current session is full, but parents will be able to sign their kids up after the seven-week session ends.
Funding for the project came through U.S. Bank and the Y’s Endowment Board.
Kids participating in the Ninja Zone are required to wear a uniform, including a specific headband and a T-shirt.
More information about the Manitowoc Two Rivers YMCA Ninja Zone can be found at mtrymca.org/ninjazone.
