Member Testimonials
I like the classes, especially the gentle yoga class. I wish the pilates class wasn't mat and was reformer instead.
The equipment, the staff and the hours.
Fantastic programming and staff. Warm and welcoming atmosphere.
I really enjoy the Y😎
Good equipment. Engaging and knowledgeable staff.
All inclusive for classes...a sense of community
The staff is friendly and helpful. Stacy, my trainer, is terrific.
Making friends
Friendly associates and great equipment.
There are many programs and people are nice.
Good workout good place to see friends.
I love it.
Every encounter with employee members has been great! It's very refreshing.
Fun Pilates class.
Great teacher
Very well run programs at Dancel
The accessibility for fundamental kids sports.
Great Reception. Quick processing of membership.
Cleanliness, variety of classes, friendly staff
Easy sign up! Everyone is friendly and willing to help
Easy to access as a family from young ages to adults. Staffs are nice and professional and clean maintenance.
The instructors are very knowledgeable and fun. My health continues to improve. The supporting staff are also friendly and helpful.
Lots of choices with aerobic exercise
Accessibility to machines
I like the diversity of members at the Dancel Family Center in Ellicott City. The staff is friendly and welcoming.
Friendly atmosphere and programs suitable for seniors.
Nice place to get my workout on
This is a perfect place for all family members can enjoy sports. Y has a variety of sports experience between little movers to older adults.
Good classes and convenient
We’ve had such a wonderful experience with the YMCA, especially when it comes to their kids programming. As a family, we always feel welcome from the moment we walk in. There’s consistently a friendly greeting, a smile, and a genuine sense that they’re happy to see us. Any questions we’ve had have always been answered, and every staff member we’ve interacted with has been kind and approachable.
What really makes it special, though, is the staff who work directly with our kids, especially Mary Grace, Sarah, Mr. Anthony, and Edwin who have done many programs with them. They are absolutely incredible. Each of them brings something unique, but they all share the same warmth, patience, and ability to truly connect with the kids. They go above and beyond, building relationships, creating a positive environment, and making kids feel seen and valued.
It gives us so much peace of mind knowing our child is not only cared for, but genuinely happy and excited to be there. The YMCA has created such a welcoming, positive environment for our family, and we’re so grateful that we joined. It’s honestly been more than a gym. It has become a real community for our family.
We’ve been members at the Dancel Y for almost a year, and I can say it has opened so many opportunities for our family. My husband and I have been able to find consistency in working out, but the real reason we love the Y is for all the “extras” that come with it. We use stay-and-play while working out, take advantage of parent night out once a month, and attend various kid-friendly events.
Aside from giving us time to workout and go out on date nights, our children have also been able to join in on many different activities including sports, crafts, and various celebrations. My children have even become awesome rock climbers.
We love all that the Y has to offer, but my most favorite is how amazing the staff is. They truly make you feel welcome every day and take the time to get to know your children.
Joining the Dancel Y has been amazing for our family, and I cannot wait to continue participating in everything they have to offer!

Lots of land and water classes to do, great instructors.