COMMUNITY HEALTH INITIATIVES
Fall 2023 Programs
LOVE YOUR HEART Blood Pressure Self Monitoring Program
This four-month program helps adults with hypertension lower and manage their blood pressure by focusing on regulated home self- monitoring of one’s blood pressure using proper measuring techniques, individualized support and nutrition education for better blood pressure management. With the support from a trained Healthy Heart Ambassador, participants:
•Measure and record their blood pressure at least two times per month
•Attend two personalized consultations per month
•Attend monthly Nutrition Education Seminars on energy
EXERCISE FOR DIABETES
An exercise program for individuals with pre-diabetes and diabetes
REDUCE YOUR RISK
•An individualized exercise plan
•Group exercises focused on cardio and resistance training
•Weekly independent circuit training exercises
MEASURABLE GOALS ONE STEP AT A TIME
•Significant improvements from decreased HbA1c levels>
•Improve physical fitness and confidence levels
•Improve lifestyle habits
Location: Mount Pleasant Branch
Monthly Fees: 2x per week=$50 Y Members; $75 Community Participant; 3x per week $75 Y Members; $105 Community Participant
NATIONAL DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM
The National DPP lifestyle change program is an evidence-based program focused on helping participants make positive lifestyle changes such as eating healthier, reducing stress and getting more physical activity. Research shows that people with prediabetes who take part in this structured lifestyle change program can cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58% (71% for people over t60 years old). This is the result of the program helping people lose 5%-7% of their body weight through healthier eating and 150 minutes of physical activity each week. If you are at high risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes, this program can help you make lifestyle changes that will improve your overall health and well- being and reduce your chances of developing the disease. In order to qualify for the program, participants must be at least 18 years old, overweight (BMI ≥ 25) and at high risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes or diagnosed with pre-diabetes. Class dates, times and location based on demand. To see if this program is a covered benefit, please check with your employer or health insurance provider. Session begins Monday, October 10, 2022. Cost: Members $450 / General Public $500
PEDALING FOR PARKINSON’S
More than one million Americans are living with Parkinson’s disease and nearly 60,000 new diagnoses occur each year. There is no known cure, and the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease increases with age. Pedaling for Parkinson’s uses group cycling and support to reduce symptoms in Parkinson’s disease suffers and improve the quality of life of patients and their caregivers. YMCA staff are trained by certified indoor cycling instructors following the Pedaling for Parkinson’s protocol and monitor heart rate and exercise frequency.
Eligibility Requirements
•Measure and record their blood pressure at least two times per month
•Adults ages 30-75
•Parkinson's disease clinical diagnosis, medical clearance
•YMCA membership not required
Location: Mount Pleasant Branch
Monthly Fees: $40 Y Members $65 Community Participant
Fees are based on class two times per week
EXERCISE FOR PARKINSON’S
Building Strength to Thrive (Offered through a partnership with Aurora Health Care). Our Exercise for Parkinson's class helps individuals with Parkinson's maintain an active lifestyle while focusing on cardiovascular conditioning, flexibility and balance. Participants work with a Physical Therapist and Fitness Specialist.
Location: Mount Pleasant Branch
Monthly Fees: $50 Y Members $75 Community Participant (based on class two times per week)
Monthly Fees: $75 Y Members $105 Community Participant (based on class three times per week)
FALLS PREVENTION - Helping You Feel Strong, Steady and Safe
Feeling unbalanced or unsteady can prevent you from taking part in basic everyday activities like cooking a meal or taking a walk with a friend. When you are hesitant to be active, you may feel like life is passing you by. Goals include improving balance, flexibility, muscle strength and mobility to enhance overall physical health. The safe and supportive group setting offers an opportunity to enjoy learning with like-minded adults and find relief from the isolation that can sometimes accompany living with limited mobility.
Eligibility Requirements
•65 years or older, physically mobile, with impaired stability and/or mobility
•45 years or older with a chronic condition that may impact stability and/or mobility
Monthly Fees: $15 Y Members $25 Community Participant
Fees are based on class two times per week
LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA
This research-based physical activity and well-being program helps adult cancer survivors reclaim their total health. Participants work with Y staff trained in supportive cancer care to safely achieve goals such as building muscle mass and strength, increasing flexibility and endurance; and improving confidence and self- esteem. By focusing on the “whole person,” instead of the disease, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is helping people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body. 12-week program begins Tuesday, September 13, 2022. To learn more, contact Mathias Werve at mwerve@ymcaracine.org or 262.898.4551.
ENHANCE® FITNESS - Modified Moves, Maximum Results
This is an evidence- based group exercise program that helps older adults at all levels of fitness become more active, energized, and empowered to sustain independent lives. Enhance Fitness focuses on dynamic cardiovascular exercise, strength training, balance, and flexibility—everything older adults need to maintain health and function as they age, manage arthritis and reduce the risk of falls.
Participants have experienced the following changes:
•More energy
•Better balance
•Increases in upper body and lower body strength
•More flexibility and range of motion
•Better sleep
•More feelings of happiness
•Sense of independence
What participants can expect:
•Classes meet three times per week for 60 minutes each.
•Stand, sit or hold onto a chair for support.
•Focus on strength, flexibility, movement and balance.
•Make friends who support and cheer you on.
Session begins Monday, October 3, 2022
Monthly Fees: $15 Y Members $25 Community Participant
Participant Fees are based on class two times per week
TAI CHI
This centuries-old Chinese martial art descends from qigong, an ancient Chinese discipline that has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine. Tai Chi involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing. This class has physical and mental benefits. If done regularly, it improves muscle tone, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Many older people find that it boosts their energy, stamina, agility, sharpens their reflexes, and gives an overall sense of well-being. Aaron Richie, certified Tai Chi instructor will lead you through an hour long class through an 8-week session. Pre-registration is required! Minimum enrollment: 6
Monday 10:30-11:30am (Riverside Branch)
Wednesday 10:30-11:30am
Saturday 10:30-11:30am
Advanced Canes
•Wednesday 11:45am-12:15pm
Location: Mount Pleasant Branch
Monthly Fees: $10 Y Members $20 Community Participant
Fees are based on class one time per week
SALSA, SABOR Y SALUD The first national program of its kind designed to encourage healthy lifestyles among Latino families – designed by Latinos for Latinos. Kraft Foods and NLCI launched the program. The eight-session program assists Hispanic families with children 12 and under to make healthy eating choices and to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.
The program is based on four messages:
•Eat from all food groups every day.
•Be sensible about portions.
•Be physically active every day.
•Take small steps for success.
8 week session begins Wednesday, September 14, 2022
TRI-FITNESS SWIM WORKOUT - Mount Pleasant Branch
Stroke Analysis and technique drills, speed, endurance and efficiency. To join this class participants must be able to complete 25 yards and be safe in deep water. The Y's coaching staff will teach the rest. Great for triathlete and fitness swimmers who are looking for a pool challenge in a team environment.
Location: Mount Pleasant Branch
Monthly Fees: $10 Members $20 Community Participant
Fees are based on class one time per week
For more information, contact mwerve@ymcaracine.org or call 262.898.4551
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