A few questions about Great Falls (buy, YMCA, schools)

[poochcol]

I came across a comment by someone here implicating no YMCA, leading me to do a Google Maps search that implied at a skim no fitness facility that I know for sure to have a large gym. Maybe schools have something for adults, so I'll ask my first question this way: if I wanted to play full-court basketball, and not just expensive league play, how difficult would it be for me to do that?

Secondly, what are generally the best ways to meet people outside of work? Perhaps you could include how you met most of your friends.

Thanks in advance

[NW Crow]

I see there is league play but I didn't dig for cost info. City touts drop in noon basketball. Probably some open court, perhaps for small fee. university in town, should have pick up games. Whether general public can get in I don't know. In deep past I remember getting to university gyms elsewhere (after my college years) for free by timing and blending in.


Can try to get know folks you buy stuff from regularly. Some incentive to be pleasant. Might get real with some, depending on match.


Probably some meet up groups. Or go to public events and mill around before, during and after making effort at meeting people (beyond quiet hoping it happens).


For meeting people beyond work you have the standard options of bars, coffee shops, churches, outdoor clubs, neighbors, etc. Get 1 or more "in", then dig (carefully) for more if it seems productive. Friends of acquaintances.


Book shops, gun ranges, university events (sports or otherwise). Depending on how safe looking and smooth you are, one probably could go to a store, see someone you want to meet and ask real and fake questions to break the ice. Maybe you make more of it then, maybe a chance next time.


Saying hi and smiling might help if you are ready to go further and can stay positive wading thru those who are not, or not the first or third time.

[Justashane]

There are two gyms in GF, Access and Peak. I used to work at Access.
Both are good gyms with different vibes, the peak is more high end, new equipment and a different atmosphere.
Access is not so high end, family oriented and easy going. They do have good equipment and plenty of awesome classes too.
Personally, I enjoy places like access. Everyone I knew in GF, I knew from the gym.
Depending on your hobbies and age, I could probably link you up with some really cool people in the area