LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

About LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a FREE 12-week wellness program designed for cancer survivors who have become deconditioned or chronically fatigued from their disease and/or treatment. Survivors work with an exercise specialist to improve strength, flexibility and confidence, and develop the tools they need to take their wellness journey with them beyond the program.

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA strives to support cancer survivors in the transition between completing their treatment, and the shift to feeling physically and emotionally strong.

Basic Program Information

The program meets twice a week, with each class lasting around 75 minutes. Each meeting includes a variety of activities, including workouts, nutrition coaching, community-building with other cancer survivors, health lectures, and more. Participants also receive a free YMCA membership for the duration of the program, to continue their wellness journey outside of formal class times.

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is open to participants ages 18+.

What To Expect

The goal of LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is overall wellness.

Participants learn many ways to improve strength and cardio-respiratory fitness, including using machines, free weights/resistance bands, and more. We also explore activities like yoga, pilates, and water exercise. Activities are adaptable and broadly based on each participant’s health history. We strive to find activities that give survivors the tools they need to continue their wellness journey beyond the program duration.

The LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA team is specially trained to work with cancer survivors and follows the American College of Sports Medicine and American Cancer Society exercise guidelines. Each instructor has specialized training in the areas of cancer, post-cancer exercise, nutrition and supportive cancer care.

Additional Benefits

FREE 12-week YMCA membership, during the program duration

Participants may be joined by a support person, if they are in direct care of the participant.

Exclusive LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA t-shirt

LIVESTRONG® got me into the routine of coming to the gym again. I was absolutely amazed at the progress that I made! I felt so much stronger, and so much like my old self. I am so grateful!

Benefits of Exercise for Cancer Survivors

An expansive body of research points to the relationship between exercise and cancer survival. Exercise is safe/effective both during and after treatment, and may reduce symptoms, enhance perception of health, and more! Exercise positively affects:

• Quality of life

• Fatigue

• Symptoms/side effects

• Depression and anxiety

• Cardiorespiratory fitness

• Functional ability

Exercise also improves your overall health, helping to:

• Improve your mood

• Promote sleep

• Manage your weight

• Boost energy

• Combat heart disease, lung disease, and more!

Upcoming Sessions

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is offered on an ongoing basis. To view upcoming session information, visit ymcanorthernsky.org/livestrong

Please indicate if you are inquiring about the Fergus Falls or Fargo area program.