Marla Gail Pachler

Marla Pachler is the Wellness Director at the Ambler YMCA in Pennsylvania, bringing more than 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. Her professional journey took an unconventional path, beginning with studies in psychology at UMass before completing three years of culinary training in New York City. During all this she went through a lot of health battles from being diagnosed with epilepsy, fighting anorexia, severe depression, two head surgeries due to a cyst, and a stroke near drowning in a pool. She lost most of her 20s due to fighting all these battles but she fought found her way out of the dark hole she was in to be able to breath again and possibly be there for others. After culinary school, Marla began working at a gym, where she could be there for others to help them along their journey to find their inner strength that took her a long time to find herself. Today, she takes a personalized approach to leadership, meeting people where they are and encouraging them to recognize their own strength and potential. One of Marla’s proudest accomplishments is creating a free Parkinson’s program for YMCA members. What began with just two or three participants has grown to more than 20 people, developing into a supportive community centered on movement, connection, and resilience. She recently expanded the program through a partnership with a local horse therapy business, adding weekly sessions that provide participants with another meaningful way to engage, build confidence, and connect with others. Through her work, Marla strives to make every YMCA member feel stronger, breathe more freely, and leave with a reason to wake up and smile. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Marla values compassion, genuine love, happiness, and service to others—principles inspired by her parents, who spent their lives volunteering and standing up for others. She enjoys spending time outdoors, paddleboarding, and creating new memories with her two young children, husband and two dogs. Her compassion also extends to animals, including her support for elephant sanctuaries and her advocacy for animals of all kinds. Whether through fitness, community programs, family, or advocacy, Marla is driven by a desire to make a positive difference and help others live healthier, stronger, and happier lives.