Community Health Programs
At the Y, we believe in supporting the health of our community with new and innovative programming. Our Health and Wellness Department offers Evidence-Based Health Intervention programs that allow you to better monitor and manage your health.
From supporting cancer survivors to building balance and confidence, these evidence-based health interventions are designed to support and improve your quality of life. Click the links below to learn more, or contact Margaret Steffie, Health and Wellness Director, at msteffie@ithacaymca.com with any questions.
Walk With Ease
Arthritis Foundation Certified. Doctor Recommended.
The YMCA of Ithaca & Tompkins County is proud to offer the Arthritis Foundation Walk with Ease Program. Walk with Ease is a six-week group exercise program that can reduce pain and improve overall health. Learn how to walk safely and comfortably, while improving your flexibility, strength, and stamina! If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you can have success with Walk with Ease.
What is Walk With Ease (WWE)?
The Arthritis Foundation developed WWE as a group walking program to encourage people with arthritis to start walking and stay motivated to keep active. A self-directed version of the program is also available, using the workbook and materials from the group classes.
During the 6-week program, participants meet three times a week in groups of up to 15. They begin each class with a health education session on an arthritis- or exercise-related topic, followed by stretching activities and a 10–35-minute walk. Participants receive WWE educational materials and tools to supplement the group classes.
Class discussion and supplemental materials cover topics such as:
- Managing arthritis pain and stiffness
- Stretching and strengthening activities to support the walking program
- Self-monitoring for physical problems while walking
- Anticipating and overcoming barriers to being physically active
- Getting and staying motivated to exercise
Who is it for?
WWE is for people with arthritis who want to increase their physical activity levels and are able to be on their feet for at least 10 minutes without increased pain.
The program may also be appropriate for people with other chronic health conditions—such as diabetes and heart disease—who want to be more active.
What are the benefits?
A CDC-funded randomized clinical trial found that both the group and self-directed versions of WWE can:
- Reduce arthritis symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and fatigue
- Improve strength, balance, and walking pace
- Reduce disability
- Increase confidence in the ability to manage arthritis
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA
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.
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA focuses on you—the whole person—not the disease. This 12-week program meets twice a week and uses traditional exercise methods to ease you back into fitness and help you feel like yourself again. You’ll focus on:
• building muscle mass and strength
• increasing flexibility and endurance
• improving confidence and self-esteem
Plus, learn about wellness, stress reduction techniques, and how to continue healthy habits after the program has ended. 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.
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.
Registering For LIVESTRONG at the YMCA
Thanks to annual fundraising efforts and community partnerships, the YMCA of Ithaca & Tompkins County is offering LIVESTRONG at the YMCA at NO COST for participants and their families. Program participants will also receive a FREE FAMILY MEMBERSHIP for the duration of the program with 3 additional months so they may join a supportive community and continue their wellness journey.
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA requires a referral and medical clearance from a physician. Open to adults 18 years or older.
REGISTER FOR YOUR INTAKE SESSION
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is supported by the YMCA Annual Campaign.
Moving For Better Balance
Moving For Better Balance is a 12-week evidence-based group exercise program developed by researchers at the Oregon Research Institute. The program, based on the principles of Tai Chi, is led by a qualified instructor and teaches eight movements modified especially for falls prevention.
The program works to improve balance, muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility to enhance overall physical health, which leads to better functioning in daily activities. Participation in the program may also result in better mental health, reduced stress, improved memory and cognition, and increased self-esteem.
Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring
The Y designed the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program to help adults with hypertension lower and manage their blood pressure. The four-month program focuses on regulated home self-monitoring of one’s blood pressure using proper measuring techniques, individualized support, and nutrition education for better blood pressure management. This program includes 4 guest passes for use of any of our facilities and an electronic blood pressure cuff.
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
Goals
- Reduction in blood pressure
- Better blood pressure management
- Increased awareness of triggers that elevate blood pressure
- Enhanced knowledge to develop healthier eating habits
Who Qualifies?
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be diagnosed with high blood pressure or be on an antihypertensive.
- Not have experienced a recent cardiac event
- Not have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias
- Not be at risk for lymphedema
Contact email Health and Wellness Director Margaret Steffie to discuss enrollment in person or by phone, or fill out an enrollment packet at the YMCA Welcome Desk. The Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring session is open enrollment — sign up any time. Participants will be required to come to at least 2 office hours per month which includes a monthly nutrition seminar.
Weight Loss Program
Our Weight Loss Program is designed to help people seeking a healthier weight achieve their goals by making small, modest changes to their daily behaviors and forming sustainable, healthy habits.
Rather than advocate for specific or restrictive short-term solutions, this program helps participants build skills for successful lifestyle changes and empowers them to self-design their action plans.
A Matter of Balance
Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. The program is presented virtually.
This program presents ways to mitigate fall risk through gentle at-home exercise, home safety techniques, and other simple adjustments.
Questions? Contact Margaret Steffie, Health and Wellness Director, at (607) 257-0101 or email msteffie@ithacaymca.com.
