Readers' Choice Winner: Dancel Family Center Y

People hit the gym for a variety of reasons.

Whether it's for health, for vanity or for just a bit more energy, we asked Ellicott City Patch readers where they like to go to break into a sweat. 

The  came out on top, with 60 percent of the votes.

"First off, we have great members," Director Michelle Reedy said of the Y's success. "Our members are fantastic. They take pride in our community, they care about each other and I think that makes a world of difference."

The idea of community resonated with Liam Francis, who said of the Y in the comments: "It's a charitable, non-profit organization that does so much great work throughout the community. Check it out!"

"We are more than just a gym," Reedy said. At the Y, "Everyone has the opportunity to become more healthy, more confident, more connected. If you’re connected, everything else follows."

Part of being connected includes giving back to the community, Reedy said.

On Sunday, March 25, it's hosting with Outback Steakhouse the , which promotes fitness and raises money for the Safe Place for Kids Campaign, which helps families who could not otherwise afford a membership take part in Y activities.  

As far as fitness goes, the Dancel Center offers two indoor pools, a full fitness center and a host of classes and programs to help you get -- and stay -- in shape. 

We know that people will travel for a good gym, so here are some of the nearby winners, too:

• Catonsville:
• Elkridge:
• Columbia: Jazzercize
• Arbutus:

Thanks for participating in this week's Readers' Choice! Next week we'll be asking where you think the best St. Patrick's Day party will be. Voting will begin at 9 a.m.