Our wellness instructors are here for you; whether you need help getting started, a refreshed program as boredom is setting in or you have decided to train for your first marathon, we can and will help.  As a member of the Granite YMCA, you can receive up to 7 coaching sessions as part of your membership!

During your Coaching session you will be walked through all aspects of living a healthy life and leave with a clear program for success.  The goals are yours and the program is yours.  Typical orientations include the following components:

• General introduction to the facility
• Discussion around possible health concerns
• Goal setting; short and long term
• Warming up
• Flexibility work
• Cardiovascular training
• Resistance training
• Cooling down
• Reducing stress
• Program review

Our wellness instructors are always available to change, amend, or refresh your program whenever you need them to.  For more information or to make an appointment at the YMCA of Downtown Manchester, please call 603-623-3558 or at the YMCA Allard Center of Goffstown, please call 603-497-4663.

Enhance®Fitness is a proven community based senior fitness and arthritis management program. It helps older adults become more active, energized, and empowered for independent living. Enhance®Fitness has been nationally recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living, and the National Council on Aging.

Though there is no known cure, low-intensity physical activity has been proven to reduce pain, improve functioning, elevate mood, and delay disability. Certified Enhance®Fitness instructors offer a program that focuses on stretching, flexibility, balance, low impact aerobics, and strength training exercises. All ability levels are accommodated. Financial assistance is available, please reach out to Cindy Lafond, Executive Director of Health Interventions ([email protected] or 603.232.8668) to learn more.

Make the most out of your time at Open Climb!  Learn to belay with us so that you can swap climbs with your partner and/or get your family on the wall!  We will teach you the skills you need so that you can keep a climber safe while they are reaching new heights.  All necessary equipment will be provided.  This class is a $35 value, but is FREE thanks to a generous donation to our climbing program.

This program is designed to give swimmers a more competitive workout with swimmers of their ability and training level.  Lanes will be split by ability and practices will be designed and implemented by a YMCA swim coach.  This is a great opportunity to train with like-minded swimmers and to challenge each other, get a great workout, and have fun!

If you are unsure if this group is right for you, or for more information, please contact  Ronny Rose, YMCA of Downtown Manchester Aquatics Director.

For children aged 3-7 with little to some experience in the water but not yet able to swim on their own without flotation.  Children will develop comfort with underwater exploration and basic safety skills as well as basic swimming skills like body positions, breath control, and basic movement through the water using the swim-float-swim skillset as they are ready.  This class is geared towards beginners.

For children aged 3-7 with some experience in the water but not yet able to swim 15yards on their own without flotation, and are moderately comfortable in the water.  Children will develop underwater exploration and basic safety skills as well as basic swimming skills like body positions, breath control, and basic movement through the water using the swim-float-swim skillset as they are ready.

Students build upon swimming longer distances and increasing endurance.  Skills include rhythmic breathing, integrated arm and leg action as well as treading water.  Youth must be able to swim 10yds independently, for ages 5 - 10yrs.

For children ages 5 - 12yrs able to swim 25 yards independently using the swim-float-swim skillset demonstrating rhythmic breathing and tread water for one minute. Children will be introduced to technique in basic competitive strokes. Water safety will be reinforced through treading water, and elementary backstroke.

Are you entering 9th or 10th grade and you were interested in learning how to coach gymnastics? Then this is the class for you. Work with qualified staff as they teach how to work with children teaching both gymnastics and Ninja. You will work with a variety of students aged 4-10 and you will learn what it is like to be a gymnastics and Ninja Coach. You will also be given time to work out in the gymnastics center to improve your personal gymnastics skills. Come for one or as many weeks as you would like. Must have 3 years of gymnastics experience and have Gymnastics Director's approval to register for program.

The most important part of any class is to have fun while being introduced or progressing in this life long sport!  Children will continue to develop movement skills, hand-eye coordination, and basic stroke production.  Games are designed to promote fundamentals and interests on the court.  This class uses red foam balls and is designed to introduce children to the game of tennis.  Red felt low-compression balls that bounce lower and move through the air slower than traditional tennis balls are used in this class. Players play using net heights of 2 feet on 36'x39' courts.  With smaller courts, shorter racquets, and lower bouncing balls, youth players will achieve greater physical activity and feel successful at tennis right from the start.

Using a 60’ court on regular nets, Advanced Hitters use orange foam balls that bounce lower and move through the air slower than traditional tennis balls. With smaller courts, shorter racquets, and lower bouncing balls, youth players will achieve greater physical activity and feel successful at tennis right from the start. Slightly faster balls and larger courts help your child build more advanced techniques and improve their tennis skills. Fun drills keep kids moving as they learn more about team and individual play in tennis.  Games are designed to promote fundamentals and interests on the court. Participants should have taken Basic Hitters prior to participating in this class.

This class is for the beginner players age 10-13 or a younger player moving up from Advanced Hitters.   The class focuses on stroke development looking for good acquisition of the forehand and backhand, different grips and proper form for volleys and serves as well as  other mechanics. Footwork, proper technique, games and drills will prepare the player for competitive rallies. Tactics are introduced in this class.  60‘ courts and orange balls are used.

The Granite YMCA creates a community where all are welcome and builds a healthy spirit, mind, and body based on the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Thanks to your gift we can make sure that everyone has access to the Y so that our community can learn, grow, and thrive. Your gift has made the difference in the lives of so many and we are grateful for your support!

The Granite YMCA, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, has not provided any goods or services, in whole or in part, to you in consideration for this contribution. If you wish to claim the tax deductibility of this gift in the U.S., please retain this acknowledgment letter for your files. The Granite YMCA EIN number is 02-0222248.

The kids are taking over the Y! Welcome to KNO, where kids ages 3 to 12 years get to take night out and play with their friends for a while. With different themes and activities each month, this is sure to be a great time! Did we mention dinner is included and it’s all included with your membership? So tell the family you’re going to the Y for Kids’ Night Out, and we’ll see you there! (Children must be potty trained.) Registration closes the Wednesday prior to the event.

Celebrate the start of summer with us!  Whether you have errands to run, brunch plans, or want to relax at home, the Y has you covered.  During our Saturday Staycation events, our trained child care professionals will keep your kids active and engaged by playing gym games, visiting the pool, doing crafts, and enjoying a healthy breakfast.  Kids are encouraged to wear their favorite summer attire such as sunglasses and hats.  There will be a prize for best dressed!  Pelase make sure your children wear or bring closed-toe shoes.

Open Chess for Newcomers

Learn the world's oldest living board game in a casual setting

Whether you are picking up a pawn for the first time or looking to transition from online play to a physical board, this monthly meetup offers a welcoming space to enjoy the game of chess. This session is designed for social play and serves as a perfect bridge for those interested in the deeper world of the sport.

What to Expect

• Casual Play: Enjoy games in a relaxed, friendly environment.

• Instructional Insights: An experienced chess mentor will be there to teach foundational principles, tactical patterns, and strategic concepts to help you improve your game.

• Skills Development: If you are curious about competitive play, you can learn the fundamentals of chess notation, clock management, and official tournament etiquette.

• The Full Experience: After the meetup, you are welcome to stay and observe a competitive chess tournament starting at 6:30PM or continue to play your own games.

Event Logistics

• When: The 4th Tuesday of every month.

• Time: 5:30-6:30pm

• Cost: Free

• Parking & Accessibility: Metered on-street parking available, but limited. Parking garage is one block away at 2-98 Plaza Dr in Manchester. Elevator from street level is available. Ring buzzer for assistance. Chess is on the second floor, Studio A.

• Contact Info & Newsletter:
  Questions? Email Eric at [email protected], or text or call (929) 900-4226.

Registration & Safety

The Granite YMCA is a secure facility. To ensure the safety of all members and children, registration and a signed liability waiver are required for all participants.

• Option 1: Pre-Register Online (Fastest) To save time on arrival, you can create an account on the YMCA portal and register for this session in advance.

  • As part of online registration, you will be prompted to review and sign the electronic liability waiver. Once registered online, you are all set for future meetups!

• Option 2: Register In-Person If you prefer not to use the online portal, you can register at the front desk.

  • Note: If registering in-person, please arrive 15 minutes early to complete the registration paperwork and sign the waiver so you can join the group at 5:30 PM sharp.

Details: Two rapid games each Tuesday evening, starting on the first Tuesday of the month. Two 4-round tournaments in one month. USCF quick rated. One open section. Swiss style pairing. If a month has 5 Tuesdays, the fifth Tuesday will be a casual format.
Time Control: G/15;+5 (15 minutes per side with 5 second increment)

Schedule:
6:00pm - Check in; Setup; Pre-game discussion on tactics and puzzle themes
6:30pm - Check-in closes; Game 1 pairings formulated
6:45pm - Game 1 begins
7:25pm - 5 minute break; results tabulated; game 2 pairings formulated
7:30pm - Game 2 begins
8:10pm - Game review and discussion

Arrive no later than 6:30pm or you will not be paired that evening. Contact organizer at contact listed below if you are going to arrive after 6:15pm. Be sure to allow time for parking.

Entry Fee:
$10 for non-members. Free to members of the Granite YMCA. Registration required for all. YMCA membership supports chess club activities - consider joining the YMCA.

Prizes:
Entry fee reimbursed for the winner after tiebreak rules applied. Limit one per month per person.

Parking & Accessibility:
Metered on-street parking available, but limited. Parking garage is one block away at 2-98 Plaza Dr in Manchester. Elevator from street level is available. Ring buzzer for assistance. Chess event is on the second floor, Studio A.

Contact Info & Newsletter:
Questions? Email Eric at [email protected], or text or call (929) 900-4226.
Sign up for weekly email updates by going to https://queencitychessnh.wixsite.com/chess.

Details: One 4-round tournament, with one game each Tuesday, starting on the first Tuesday of the month. USCF dual rated. One open section. Swiss style pairing. If the month has 5 Tuesdays, the fifth Tuesday will be a casual format.
Time Control: G/45;+5

Schedule:
6:00pm - Check in; Setup; Pre-game discussion on tactics and puzzle themes
6:30pm - Check-in closes; pairings finalized
6:45pm - Games begin; Post-game discussions to follow
9:00pm - Facility closes

Arrive no later than 6:30pm or you will not be paired that evening. Contact organizer at contact listed below if you are going to arrive after 6:15pm. Be sure to allow time for parking.

Entry Fee:
$10 for non-members. Free to members of the Granite YMCA. Registration required for all. YMCA membership supports chess club activities - consider joining the YMCA.

Prizes:
Entry fee reimbursed for the winner of the classical tournament.

Parking & Accessibility:
Metered on-street parking available, but limited. Parking garage is one block away at 2-98 Plaza Dr in Manchester. Elevator from street level is available. Ring buzzer for assistance. Chess event is on the second floor, Studio A.

Contact Info & Newsletter:
Questions? Email Eric at [email protected], or text or call (929) 900-4226.
Sign up for weekly email updates by going to https://queencitychessnh.wixsite.com/chess.

Classical Chess Duel

A new chess league in Manchester, NH

Elevate your chess game with a focused classical game against a closely matched opponent, the first Saturday of every month in Manchester, NH. This format serves to hone your thought process, develop mental stamina, deepen strategic thinking, and practice time management.

What: USCF Rated, over-the-board chess games
Time Control: G/90;+10 (90 minutes per side with 10 second increment)

When: First Saturday of every month of 2026 (**Second Saturday in case of snow emergency or holiday conflict)
Dates: Jan 3, Feb 7, Mar 7, Apr 11, May 2, Jun 6, Jul 11, Aug 1, Sep 12, Oct 3, Nov 7, Dec 12. This signup is for the full year. To sign up for individual months, click here.

Schedule:
9:00am - Check in; Setup
9:30am - Check-in closes; pairings finalized. Games begin as soon as possible.

Arrive no later than 9:30am to ensure a pairing.

Price:
$5 per month, or $60 for the full year.

Location:
YMCA of Downtown Manchester, 30 Mechanic St, 2nd Floor, Studio A. (Exception: The January event will be on the 2nd floor in Studio C.)

Additional Details:
Snacks provided, or bring your own. Prizes for top scores. For a complete listing of rules and prize schedule, visit this link.

Parking & Accessibility:
Metered on-street parking available, but limited. Parking garage is one block away at 2-98 Plaza Dr in Manchester. Elevator from street level is available. Ring buzzer for assistance. Chess is on the second floor, Studio A.

Contact Info:
Email Eric at [email protected], or text or call (929) 900-4226.

Stay Informed:
Sign up for weekly email updates at https://queencitychessnh.wixsite.com/chess.

This all-in-one chess sign-up covers all Chess League and Monthly Tournament events at the Granite YMCA for 2026.

Chess League: USCF Rated, over-the-board chess games
Time Control: G/90;+10 (90 minutes per side with 10 second increment)

When: First Saturday of every month of 2026 (**Second Saturday in case of snow emergency or holiday conflict)
Dates: Jan 3, Feb 7, Mar 7, Apr 11, May 2, Jun 6, Jul 11, Aug 1, Sep 12, Oct 3, Nov 7, Dec 12.

Schedule:
9:00am - Check in; Setup
9:30am - Check-in closes; pairings finalized. Games begin as soon as possible.

Arrive no later than 9:30am to ensure a pairing.

Additional Details:
Snacks provided, or bring your own. Prizes for top scores. For a complete listing of rules and prize schedule, visit this link.

Monthly Chess Tournament - Rapid Tuesdays: Two 4-round tournaments in one month. Two rounds each Tuesday, starting on the first Tuesday of the month. USCF quick rated. One open section. Swiss style pairing. If a month has 5 Tuesdays, the fifth will be a casual format. Schedule subject to change due to holidays.
Time Control: G/15;+5

When: Each Tuesday evening from 6pm to 8pm in odd-numbered months (Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Nov)

Schedule:
6:00pm - Check in; set-up; warm-up (discussion of game analysis, tactics, strategy)
6:30pm - Check-in closes; pairings finalized
6:45pm - Clocks start; games begin
9:00pm - Facility closes

Arrive no later than 6:30pm or you will not be paired that evening. Contact organizer if you are going to arrive after 6:15pm. Be sure to allow time for parking.

Prizes:
One month's entry fee ($10) reimbursed for the winner after tiebreak rules applied. Limit one per month per person.

Monthly Chess Tournament - "Fast Classical" Tuesdays: One 4-round tournament. One round each Tuesday, starting on the first Tuesday of the month. USCF dual rated. One open section. Swiss style pairing. If a month has 5 Tuesdays, the fifth will be a casual format. Schedule subject to change due to holidays.
Time Control: G/45;+5

When: Each Tuesday evening from 6pm to 8pm in even-numbered months (Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct, Dec)

Schedule:
6:00pm - Check in; set-up; warm-up (discussion of game analysis, tactics, strategy)
6:30pm - Check-in closes; pairings finalized
6:45pm - Clocks start; games begin
9:00pm - Facility closes

Arrive no later than 6:30pm or you will not be paired that evening. Contact organizer if you are going to arrive after 6:15pm. Be sure to allow time for parking.

Prizes:
One month's entry fee ($10) reimbursed for the winner of the classical tournament.

Price:
$120 for non-members. Free to members of the Granite YMCA.

Location:
YMCA of Downtown Manchester, 30 Mechanic St, 2nd Floor, Studio A. (Exception: The January Chess League event will be on the 2nd floor in Studio C.)

Parking & Accessibility:
Metered on-street parking available, but limited. Parking garage is one block away at 2-98 Plaza Dr in Manchester. Elevator from street level is available. Ring buzzer for assistance. Chess event is on the second floor, Studio A.

Contact Info & Newsletter:
Questions? Email Eric at [email protected], or text or call (929) 900-4226.
Sign up for weekly email updates by going to https://queencitychessnh.wixsite.com/chess.