- By Erin Ward

Spanning an entire NYC block, The 92nd Street Y is one of the most high-profile cultural and community centers in the country.  Known for its top-notch course offerings for all ages, a headline-making pre-school, and an endless list of iconic talks (Gloria Steinem, Ian McEwan, and Amy Poehler, to name a few), this particular Y is also home to the state-of-the-art May Center for Health, Fitness & Sport.

The May Center hosts over 100 fitness classes weekly, appealing to a broad range of fitness interests and abilities.  And now non-members can gain access to five of the most sought-after classes on the schedule, exclusively through GoRecess (check out the schedule here!)

Location: Upper East Side; New York, NY

Drop-In Classes Offered: Powerocity, Intro to Yoga, Intro to Pilates, Zumba, Deep Water Running

Why You Should Check It Out: The 50,000+ square-foot facility - featuring a 5,000 square-foot cardio training area, two weight training rooms, two gyms, an indoor track, steam rooms, saunas, expert wellness, nutrition and personal training, and a 25-yard, ozone-purified swimming pool - serves as the ultimate fitness playground, all under one roof.  

Despite the large size, any and every level of fitness seeker will feel welcome here: the vibe is a relaxed, friendly one, stemming from the tight-knit community feel that emanates from every facet of this Upper East Side stalwart.

Know Before You Go: Showers are available for May Center members only, so if you're not a member be sure to leave some time to shower at home after class. Make sure to bring your own towel and water bottle.  The staff at the front entrance on Lexington can point you in the direction of your class and is super helpful.

Advice for First Timers: Try each of the classes to see what works best for you. Classes are open to all abilities and the instructors are accomodating to your experience level.  With five unique classes offered, you can choose if you want to build strength and power, get a deep stretch, refresh in the pool, or dance your heart out. As long as you bring a smile, you'll leave feeling a little sweaty, and really good. 

Insider's Tip: Powerocity is a one-of-a-kind, body-transforming experience that mixes Spinning® with kickboxing, squats, resistance bands, and treadmill work for a cardio-pumping experience that will leave you wanting more. (Or, at least, the same class another day after you recover!)  Powerocity aims to tap into that inner warrior, increasing stamina and endurance, while building muscle tone.