When training for Ironman/anything else in Edmonton it is essential to have a membership at an indoor gym. For the last several years we have been quite happy with the Y because it offers:
- pool with a swimming lane always open for members/laps
- running track
- good weight machines
- free swim lessons and t-ball lessons for the kids
However, recently a new option has come to Edmonton, the Terwilleger rec center. A pass for the family that will get you into Terwillegar, and any city of edmonton fitness facility costs a comparable price to the Y, leaving us with a very difficult decision... After visiting the new center the following advantages/disadvantages were noted:
- the pool rocks. It has a warm pool that is very shallow for little kids, a wave pool, a river ride, and a water slide. Also a steam room and sauna (and hot tub of course, but the Y has that too). It also has a 50 M pool (Y has just 25 M) but bizarrely they have shortened it with temporary barriers so that it is 3 pools, and the lap pool is only 25 M as well. There is also an elaborate diving set up, but I wouldn't really use that. Advantage: Terwillegar
- the locker rooms suck. More than half of the lockers (and all of the full size lockers) are "cash" lockers meaning the only ones that you can use a lock on (and thus not pay) are small, and over crowded. Also, the Y has an awesome system where you can use both a lock and your Y card to lock the locker, doubling your security! Finally, the showers at Terwillegar are deficient, there are only 3 of them for the entire mens change room! Huge line, not too cool, I think I would have to switch to plus if we went here and it would cost more... Advantage: Y
- Swim lessons: Terwillegar charges extra, Y is free. Advantage: Y
- Playground: Terwillegar's is far bigger and more elaborate, I think they win here. Advantage: Terwillegar
- Spin Bikes and Treadmills: Terwillegar's are new and more advanced, but the Y is replacing all of theirs, I think to compete. Advantage: tie
- Running Track: Terwillegar's track is 200 M, the west end Y's is 170M. Terwillegar's is better too as there is more to see, machines, pool, gym where people were playing soccer, etc. Advantage: Terwillegar
- Spin Classes: I don't really know, the Y's are very good, but I didn't have a chance to try Terwillegar. Advantage: I don't know
Conclusion: We are cheap so we stuck with the Y. Plus Mike and KK LOVE THE Y!
