PARTNERS IN HEALING THE WHOLE PERSON
As a cancer survivor, you understand the tremendous physical and emotional toll the experience has on your sense of health and well-being. The LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program can help you reclaim your health and continue healing.
The program participants receive a FREE three-month citywide YMCA of Central Kentucky family membership to help further their wellness journey. By focusing on the whole person and not the disease, LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA helps people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body. Participants will be invited to participate in several components of the program, including:
- Group exercise classes
- Individualized training and exercise development sessions
- Social engagement activities, and
- Educational seminars and guest speakers
WHAT IS THE LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA PROGRAM?
The YMCA partnered with LIVESTRONG® to provide a safe, supportive environment for cancer survivors to continue their healing and achieve their whole-person health goals. LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a free, 12-week program that meets twice per week for 90 minutes and focuses on physical exercise and social activities in a safe, supportive environment for strengthening your whole sense of self. By participating in the LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program, you can experience:
- Increased energy and ability to do everyday tasks,
- Improved muscle mass and strength, flexibility, balance and endurance,
- Increased confidence and self-esteem, and
- Connection with and support from other cancer survivors and experienced, supportive coaches at the Y.
TAKING IT AT YOUR OWN PACE
Participants in the LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program are cancer survivors who are over the age of 18 and:
- Are in or out of active cancer treatment,
- Have a strong personal desire to improve their physical health and participation in daily activities,
- Can commit to participation in the 12-weeks of classes, and
- Obtain and submit a Medical Clearance for Participation form.
We understand that some cancer treatment is ongoing, and individuals who feel strong enough to participate during ongoing treatment are welcome to join with medical clearance.
EXPERT, CARING COACHES
Participants work with YMCA of Central Kentucky staff trained in supportive cancer care to achieve their goals such as building muscle mass and strength; increasing flexibility and endurance; and improving confidence and self-esteem. They are ready and able to understand your unique physical needs and concerns and help you address them safely. LIVESTRONG coaches are relationship builders – able to connect with and develop relationships with and among cancer survivors and their families. In addition to physical benefits, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA focuses on the emotional well-being of survivors and their families by providing a supportive community where people impacted by cancer can connect during treatment and beyond.
Certified YMCA fitness instructors will deliver the physical activity portions of the program. Instructors are trained in the elements of cancer, post-rehab exercise and supportive cancer care.
THE NEED FOR LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA
Medical studies have shown that moderate levels of appropriate physical activity and exercise can improve physical strength and endurance, help reduce fatigue, boost mood and energy levels and increase confidence and self-esteem for participating in daily activities. As you know, cancer survivors are increasingly aware of the benefits physical exercise, social activities and stress management can have on quality of life.
"The best thing about the LIVESTRONG program is that you can’t fail. It’s designed for you to succeed, and believe me, after diagnoses, biopsies, surgery, chemo and radiation, you just want to succeed at something." ::: Carolyn, LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA graduate
To learn more about this life-changing program, contact Bob Johnson.