Y.M.C.A. NOTES.

Waikato Times, Volume 107, Issue 17977, 24 March 1930, Page 9

Y.M.C.A. NOTES.

HAMILTON ACTIVITIES. GY'MNASTIC CLASSES COMMENCEOPTIMIST CLUB MEETINGS. The real activities of the Hamilton branch of the Y.M.G.A. commenced last week when the gymnastic class' s inaugurated their hew season. All classes are numerically strong this year, and under the direction of the physical instructor, Mr \V. Eyre, work is proceeding apace. The programme of exercises has 'been arranged according -to the ages of members. For the senior men and ladies there are the more advanced movements, while for the intermediate sections a somewhat easier type of drill is carried out. The beginners also have their studies, and as they become proficient in these they graduate to a more difficult series. A comprehensive scheme of physical training for every class gives every muscle in the body its share of action. In the senior ladies’ class, which commenced on Wednesday, there are some forty membeis. Calisthenics, or free exercises, and club drill took up the earlier part of the evening. Then followed a ball game, known as centre dodge ball, in which three teams participated. This game provided plenty of excitement., besides being quite a strenuous form of exercise. Basketball, too, took a prominent part in the evening’s activities. Of a different type were the evolutions on the mats, upon which tumbling feats were performed. Two hours of physical exercises are carried out every week in the ladies’ class. Another branch of -the Y.M.G.A., the Optimists’ Club, has also commenced its year. Composed of young men of the senior class, the club provides many opportunities for mutual entertainment. The membership is rapidly increasing. Meetings are held every Wednesday evening, when dinner is served in the club-room. As the season progresses new' schemes are to be introduced into the programme. Good work is being done by the Ladies’ Auxiliary, who are strong in numbers and enthusiasm this year. These ladies devote much time and energy' to schemes for aiding the finances of the Y.M.G.A., and, besides this, they arrange the many details connected a villi the banquets, dinners and social evenings which are periodically held in the gymnasium. In every way they render ■ invalubale assistance to the organisation, and it is gratifying to know that they are a stronger body than ever this year.