Healthy Living for Every Age, Every Stage
Greater Holyoke YMCA offers evidence-based health programs for adults at every life stage, including a Diabetes Prevention Program, LIVESTRONG cancer recovery classes, and a bilingual Parkinson’s exercise program.
Diabetes Prevention Program
The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program helps adults at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles by eating healthier, increasing physical activity and losing a modest amount of weight in order to reduce their chances of developing the disease.
Research by the National Institutes of Health has shown that programs like the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program can reduce the number of new cases of type 2 diabetes by 58% and 71% in adults over age 60.
Program Details
In a classroom setting, a trained lifestyle coach will facilitate a small group of participants in learning about healthier eating, physical activity, and other behavior changes over 26 sessions. The year-long program consists of 16 weekly sessions and 4 sessions every other week during the first 6 months followed by 6 monthly sessions in the second 6 months. To help reduce your risk for diabetes, your goal during the first 6 months of the program is to:
- Reduce your body weight by 5-7% (example: if you weigh 200 lbs, your goal would be to lose 14 lbs)
- Increase physical activity by 150+ minutes per week (example: a 30-minute brisk walk 5 days per week)
Program is covered by Medicare Part B for those eligible, financial assistance also available.
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA
Gain physical and mental strength and determination through our small-group program designed for those who are living with, through or beyond cancer.
Our 12-week program includes:
- Two 75 to 90-minute sessions per week
- Cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, balance and flexibility exercises
- Fitness and quality of life assessments before and after participation
- YMCA-certified instructors helping you every step of the way
Requires referral and medical clearance from a physician. Open to adults 18 years or older.
Community Exercise & Wellness for people with Parkinson’s Disease
The Greater Holyoke YMCA and the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, Massachusetts Chapter are teaming up to offer a bilingual (Spanish/English) 6-week exercise and information program for people living with Parkinson’s Disease. Our hope is to continue to expand services to reach underserved, and underrepresented people with Parkinson’s Disease.
Participants will:
- Enjoy a community of people with Parkinson’s
- Learn and master an exercise program specific to Parkinson’s
- Improve walking speed and confidence
- Improve balance and posture
- Learn Problem-solving approaches and strategies that can help you move more easily
To Qualify:
- Participants must have a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease.
- Be able to walk independently with or without a device.
- Novice and experienced exercisers are welcome!
This exercise program is supported by research and has been shown to improve functional mobility, decrease Parkinson’s symptoms, and slow the disease progression.
Host a party, train like a pro, or just have fun. The Greater Holyoke YMCA’s batting cage, golf simulator, and more are available to rent.