As a cancer survivor, you know the tremendous toll the disease and its treatment can take on your spirit, mind and body. You want to begin to heal and reclaim your health. But where do you start? LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA can help.
In 2013, our YMCA partnered with the LIVESTRONG® Foundation to help cancer survivors begin the journey toward recovery. With this program, we provide adult cancer survivors with a safe, supportive environment where they can participate in physical and social activities that focus on strengthening the whole person.
Upcoming programs:
- Greenbush YMCA starting April 24
- Bethlehem YMCA starting June 18
The Value of the Program
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA focuses on you — the whole person — not the disease. This no cost, 12-week program meets twice a week for 90 minutes, using traditional and holistic exercise methods to ease you back into fitness and help you maintain a healthy life.
We focus on:
- building your muscle mass and strength
- increasing your flexibility and endurance
- improving your confidence and self-esteem
Plus, you learn about wellness and stress reduction techniques and how to continue healthful habits after the program has ended. Just as important, LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA provides a warm spirit of community.
At the Y, you’ll find a safe, comfortable place for you to build companionship, share stories, and be inspired.
"LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA has made an incredible difference in my recovery from breast cancer. The treatments had slowed my metabolism and there were so many daily activities I couldn’t do. The coaches are patient and kind and showed me how to build up my strength, without overdoing it. The survivors in the group all are very warm and friendly. Now, I am proud of what I can do. I feel like a different person.”
-Michelle
Expert, Caring Staff
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA staff have been specially trained to work with cancer survivors, and they follow American College of Sports Medicine and American Cancer Society exercise guidelines. They’re exercise experts who can understand your unique physical needs and challenges and help you address them safely. They’re also relationship builders with the empathy and ability to connect.
The Need for LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA
Medical studies have shown that moderate levels of appropriate physical activity can reduce fatigue, boost self-esteem, and improve muscle strength and physical endurance in individuals following cancer treatment. Cancer survivors themselves are increasingly aware of the positive impact that moderate physical activity, supportive relationships and stress reduction techniques can have on their quality of life. LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA has helped thousands of cancer survivors move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body.