#287: YMCA President Helps Us Build A Better Body, Mind, Spirit Through Christian Organization

He's back home in East Alabama and West Georgia now as the President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Columbus with 3 locations. And it's a good time to get in shape before summer!

(2:22) Scott Balkcum talks about getting into shape in this Spring season, (8:16) how he got started in the "Y" business and life after sports like basketball (he got college scholarships), (13:28) also competition between health clubs or "gyms" and how it gets busier in certain seasons.

(19:20) Scott has worked for YMCAs in Alabama, Georgia, SC for 15 years. What has he found that helps push or motivate people to exercise? He uses swim classes for little kids as an example. And he loves the variety of people pockets that work out at different times.

(26:43) We talk about all the details of upcoming Summer Camps at the Y and (30:51) and him as a volunteer coach for little kids playing flag football.

(32:20) There's also a faith side of the YMCA, which has been around in Columbus GA almost 170 years! Scott touches on the changes to the lingo, logo but not moving away from the Christian principles they've always stood on and the mission to help with spirit, body and mind. That includes Bible studies and baptisms at the Y pool. (37:48) There are also special deals for some members and financial help for others.

After giving some highlights from the Boston Marathon, (52:00) I close out the episode in prayer. Thanks for listening to "Run the Race." Share it with your friends! Subscribe or follow the show for regular, inspiring content on fitness and faith!

On your journeys of fitness and faith, we are helping you stay motivated to be stronger physically and spiritually on the new RUN THE RACE podcast. Host Jason Dennis - veteran WTVM news anchor, marathon runner and missionary, will talk to experts and people with inspiring stories as we dig deeper into the mind, body and soul.