YMCA Fairfax County Reston

"This review is for private swim lessons at the YMCA. We left AquaTots in South Riding 1.5 years ago and we've never looked back. We joined the Y for private swim lessons (for our very energetic twin 5 year olds, who were pretty shy when we started swim lessons last year), and we're super happy with the decision. I definitely recommend requesting their assistant aquatics director as an instructor for your kids if taking private lessons (his name is Charles), as we went through like two part-time employees/instructors prior to, and while they were friendly and patient with our kids, they didn't have that winning combo of energy and focus that Charles does. I've seen him teach some group kids swim classes too, so he doesn't *just* do private lessons (but if you have young twins, honestly, private lessons are the way to go... they cost close to the same amount as group lessons for two, and only one parent has to get in the water each week!). Can't speak to the other swim instructors, but the guards we interact with and other instructors we see in passing on Sunday mornings are all always super nice and professional."

"If Coach Charles was on Oprah’s radar, he’d be winning a car! He is so fantastic with not only our son but all the kids (all levels, all development stages mentally and physically). He has a unique way of keeping the classes fun and technical at the same time. He is very tuned in to his swimmers’ abilities to meet them where they are at —but push them to the next level. He is building life saving skills and confidence and passion for swim all at the same time. He’s incredibly nice and clearly knowledgeable of his craft. Charles is the gold standard for swim coaches everywhere. We couldn’t be happier!"

"Would be an easy 5/5 for its facilities and amenities had it not been for one sour employee experience (front desk receptionist named Kenny). Recently was just asking for information of the sauna (which is currently not operational) to the front desk lady and when I couldn’t hear her due to mumbling her words, I asked again. Still murmuring I asked a third time because she said “I couldn’t hear you.” So I asked one more time and she snapped with, “I said there’s NO NEWS!” Don’t show that kind of attitude over a simple miscommunication. 5 stars/5 to everyone else working there, however."

"Great facility and front desk staff. My nieces come here for swim team! Great program they love it. Two stars was because of overhearing how the aquatics staff talk to their employees … heard one of them call them call another younger guy “stupid.” Looked 40? Not sure.. shocked me not sure how to bring it up since I was there only twice to watch my nieces. I would retrain them on how to talk to their staff. Doesn’t look good on their teamwork. Coaches seem organized and serious which is good. Might bring my kids one day."

"We've been members for several years now. There is tons of equipment so you never have to wait for anything. The staff are friendly and the locker rooms are exceptionally clean. The gym itself always feels like a safe environment. The price can't be beat since it also has a basketball court, spin class, and a pool."