YMCA offers special wellness programs for cancer survivors

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - Cancer is a life-changing disease that takes a tremendous physical and emotional toll on those affected. The Y and LIVESTRONG have joined together to create LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, a research-based physical activity and well-being program designed to help cancer survivors achieve their holistic health goals. By focusing on the whole person and not the disease, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is helping people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body. The program also welcomes and encourages participation of the caregiver.

The program fulfills the important need of supporting the increasing number of cancer survivors who find themselves in the transitional period between completing their cancer treatment and the shift to feeling physically and emotionally strong enough to attempt to return to their normal life of their “new normal.” Cancer survivors are defined as anyone from diagnosis through remission. At this time, the program is available for adults only.

Participants work with Y Staff trained in supportive cancer care to safely achieve their goals such as building muscle mass and strength; increasing flexibility and endurance; and improving confidence and self-esteem. Additional goals include reducing the severity of the therapy side effects and preventing unwanted weight changes. A final goal of the program is to assist participants in developing their own physical fitness program so they can continue to practice a healthy lifestyle, not only as part of their recovery, but as a way of life. In addition to the physical benefits, the program provides participants and their caregivers a supportive environment and a feeling of community with their fellow survivors, caregivers, Y staff and members.

Comments shared from the participants include, “This was a positive experience and I felt very comfortable in this environment”. “I have a new outlook on fitness and health and can’t wait to continue on my own to a healthier me”.

The next session of LIVESTRONG at the YMCA begins February 16th. The program meets twice a week, Monday and Wednesday, 1:30 – 2:45pm at the Shadowbend YMCA. The costs associated with the program are underwritten by the YMCA for both the survivor and caregiver. Space is limited for each session.

In addition to the LiveSTRONG program, the YMCA also has a program for breast cancer survivors: Restoration Pilates. This rehabilitation program is designed to restore the range of motion and functional muscle movement patterns through Pilates. This gentle form of exercise is suitable for all fitness levels and is available to all breast cancer survivors - 8 weeks or many years post op. The instructor is a Certified Pink Ribbon Program Instructor. Class meets once a week for 8 weeks, Monday or Wednesday.

For more information on LIVESTRONG at the YMCA and Restoration Pilates, contact Levitia Simmons, Healthy Living Director, 281.367.9622. The Shadowbend Y is located at 6145 Shadowbend Place in The Woodlands.