Editor’s Note: This column is written by Emory Smith, a YMCA staff member.

In 1891, Luther H. Gulick, M.D., proposed the triangle as the symbol of the YMCA, with the equal sides of the triangle standing for “man’s essential unity, body, mind and spirit, each being a  necessary and eternal part of man, he being neither one alone…”

More than 100 years later, the YMCA Mission Statement still reflects this emphasis: “To put Christian Principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.”

Keeping one’s spirit, mind and body healthy or fit is not always an easy task. With the “busyness” of our lives, it is easy to become unfit in one or even all three of these areas. As with the triangle, if one of these “sides” becomes weak, the wellness of one’s entire being can be at risk.

At your YMCA, your fitness or wellness is our emphasis. We encourage you to attend to the fitness of your spirit through fellowship and devotion to the spiritual disciplines. For the fitness of your mind, you are encouraged to never stop learning. Take classes, read books and play mentally challenging games. For the fitness of your body … well, that is where we can help most.

Your YMCA is fully equipped to help you with your physical fitness needs. We have an indoor pool that is open year-round. And we have the latest equipment to increase your cardiovascular health and increase your endurance and muscle fitness. If you don’t know where to begin, our new fitness director, Kathy Bell, can help you set up a fitness program that can help you with any or all of your fitness goals. Whether you want to lose weight, re-tone those flabby muscles, work on having a healthier heart, or just become more fit overall, we have the program for you.

Come by or call the YMCA, at (229) 243-0508, to find out more about how you can become healthier. And, don’t forget that all three sides of your being — spirit, mind and body — need to be healthy and fit.

Emory Smith is a staff member at the Bainbridge-Decatur County YMCA. He can be reached at (229) 243-0508.