In 2008, the YMCA partnered with the LIVESTRONG® Foundation to help cancer survivors begin the journey toward recovery with the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program. Part of the Y’s commitment to strengthening community through healthy living, the program offers adults affected by cancer a safe, supportive environment to participate in physical and social activities focused on strengthening the whole person. 

How Does the Program Work? 

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA focuses on you—the whole person—not the disease. The FREE, 12-week program meets twice a week for 90 minutes, using traditional exercise methods to ease you back into fitness and help you maintain a healthy weight. You’ll focus on: 

• building muscle mass and strength 
• increasing flexibility and endurance 
• improving confidence and self-esteem 

The program includes cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, balance, and flexibility exercises. Plus, learn about wellness, stress reduction techniques and how to continue healthful habits after the program has ended. Evaluation includes Functional and Quality of Life assessments before and after participation.

Just as important, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA encourages a warm spirit of community—a safe, comfortable place for you to build companionship with others affected by cancer and share stories and inspiration. 

Taking It at Your Own Pace 

No one experiences cancer in the same way. Participants come to the program with different physical challenges and lifestyle goals. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA provides you with individualized attention and an approach to recovery that targets the areas you need to rebuild. There’s no competition here—physical activities are tailored to match only what you’re able to accomplish. 

Expert, Caring Staff 

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA staff have been specially trained to work with cancer survivors and patients and follow American College of Sports Medicine and American Cancer Society exercise guidelines. They’re exercise experts who can understand your unique physical needs and concerns and help you address them safely. They’re also relationship builders with the empathy and ability to connect with and develop relationships with and among cancer survivors and their families. 

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. And 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.