The YMCA Saved my Deployment Summer

Why the YMCA Was My Deployment Summer Lifeline

Deployment summers are tough, military spouses. No school, no camps, just you and the kids—or just you, missing your service member while everyone else posts beach selfies on social media. With five kids (ages 2-14) and a full-time work-from-home job, one summer deployment had me at my breaking point. I wanted to train for a 10K race, but how do you run with a stroller full of kids or a bike posse in tow? The YMCA became my lifeline, and here’s why it might be yours, too.

A Deployment Summer Struggle

Picture this: It’s summer 2017, my Marine husband is deployed, and I’m home with four kids, no school routine to save me. I’m staring at Instagram posts of couples sipping colorful drinks by the lake, feeling like I’m missing out on life. My deployment goal was to stay sane and maybe get in shape for a 10K, but the base gym’s “watch your kids from the treadmill” setup led to more sibling fights than workouts. I was desperate for a solution that didn’t break the bank.

Why the YMCA?

Enter the YMCA. A friend mentioned their childcare, and I was sold. For up to 2 hours, my kids could play while I ran, swam, or just enjoyed the free wi-fi in peace. It was a mental health game-changer, whether I was parenting solo or just needed a break from deployment loneliness. Here’s why the YMCA stood out:

• Free Childcare: Up to 2 hours of childcare per visit, included with membership. Perfect for workouts or a quiet moment to read.

• Military Discounts: Many YMCAs waive registration fees for military families and offer discounted memberships—ours was $50/month!

• Flexible Options: Run, swim, join a class, or relax with Wi-Fi. There’s something for every spouse, kids or no kids.

• Military Outreach Program: Live far from a base? The YMCA’s Military Outreach offers free memberships for families of deployed service members or National Guard for 6+ months. Learn more here.

The YMCA was the salvation I needed during a Deployment Summer. Share on X

How It Saved My Summer

One swelteringly unbearable day, I took the kids to the YMCA’s splash pool—a shallow wonderland with spraying water and slides. They played for hours, and I got a peaceful run in. On the drive home, they were so worn out, they fell asleep in the car. Total win! Other days, I’d use the childcare to catch up on work or just breathe, knowing my kids were safe and happy. It was a guilt-free escape from the deployment grind.

For child-free spouses, the Y is just as valuable. Feeling isolated during a deployment? A yoga class or a quiet coffee in the lounge can lift that social media envy. It’s self-care that doesn’t cost a fortune.

Tips to Make the YMCA Work for You

• Check Local Benefits: Call your local YMCA to confirm military discounts and childcare policies, as they vary by county.

• Plan Small Wins: Use the childcare to tackle one task, like a quick workout or a personal project. Small wins boost your mood!

• Mini-Breaks: Schedule a YMCA visit as a mini-break—swim with the kids or enjoy solo time to recharge.

• Explore Classes: From Zumba to swimming lessons, the Y offers discounted classes for kids and adults.

If you’re struggling this deployment summer, the YMCA could be your escape hatch. Whether you’re chasing fitness goals, mental clarity, or just a moment of peace, it’s a budget-friendly haven.

Want more deployment tips? Check out my list of resources or join our “Handle Deployment Like a Boss” Facebook group for community support. Or check out my giant list of deployment resources here!

What’s your go-to summer sanity-saver? Leave a comment or hit reply—I’d love to hear!

Get the “Open When” Book for Military Spouses!

Dear Military Spouse,
I wrote these letters to encourage you throughout your military life journey. Whether you are celebrating a milestone, surviving an unfamiliar challenge, or feeling unheard, you are not alone.

I am here with you, from the first moments of falling in love with your service member, to attending your first military ball, giving birth while your spouse is deployed, and moving across country (or an ocean) on short notice. I know what it’s like to be making new friends—again and again, finding strength to support other spouses in the community, preparing to leave active duty, and many other military life moments in between.

This collection of Open When letters is meant to deliver that special message from a friend who understands, whenever you need reassurance, helpful ideas, or a simple reminder of your own strength. We’ve got this! ~ Lizann Lightfoot, the Seasoned Spouse