YMCA to Offer 6 Week Youth Boxing Program Beginning April 7
| By Jennifer Bailey
Staff Writer |
Covington, VA (Apr. 1, 2026)— Today, the Journal paid a visit to the YMCA, located at 101 YMCA Way in Covington, and chatted with our friend, Matt Clayton, who is both the Health & Wellness Coordinator and personal trainer. Soon, Clayton will be adding a third role to his already impressive resume as the instructor for the Y's new Youth Boxing Program set to begin on April 7th at 5:30 p.m.
"What we're doing is we're taking ages six through 12. Ages six through nine is gonna be starting at that 5:30 time slot, and then ages 10-12, they're gonna actually following up, right off at that 6:30 time slot," Clayton said, noting that the split between ages was necessary for the different levels.
"We're gonna be incorporating not just boxing fundamentals, we're also gonna be working on general health stuff. I'm a personal trainer here at the YMCA as well, so I really enjoy the cardio aspect of it. That's a big part of why I love boxing. It's really one of the only exercises in the entire world where you can work your shoulders, your back, your arms, you know? You can work your core. It's one of the best core exercises ever."
The program will run for six weeks with the potential to restart, should there be enough community interest. It will cost $40 for members and $65 for nonmembers, with a special $10 rate per session for any child who wishes to show up and try out the program without the commitment.
For additional information, contact Matthew Clayton at mclayton@ahymca.org. To reach the YMCA's main number for additional information on their many other spring programs, call 540-962-9622.
The Journal conducted a brief video interview with Clayton that will soon be available on the Alleghany Journal Facebook page. | | | | | |
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