Wanting to Get Active? You Can Do It!

Has your doctor told you that physical activity or exercise could help with managing your symptoms or rebuilding the strength you lost during treatment? Do you know how to get started? The YMCA Survivorship & Wellness Powered by Moffitt program may be right for you.

This no-cost, 12-week fitness and wellness program is offered in the community for survivors at most locations of the YMCA of the Suncoast and the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA. The program focuses on rebuilding strength and fitness and building a sense of social support with other cancer survivors. Medical clearance is required by the YMCA to participate, and your local YMCA can provide information to you to share with your doctor.

The program is open to YMCA members and nonmembers. Participants receive a no-cost family membership for the length of the program, which means your caregiver could also visit the YMCA and work out separately.

On average, adults are encouraged to complete at least two and a half hours of moderate activity each week, and this program helps participants work toward that goal. The program meets twice a week for 12 weeks for an hour and 15 minutes each session. It might sound like a lot, but program coaches help you start slowly and safely.

The program is offered in small groups and led by trained coaches who meet each participant where they are, so they can exercise safely based on their individual needs. Over time, participants build strength, confidence, hope and camaraderie with other survivors. At the end of the program, participants celebrate their accomplishments with a graduation.

To learn more about the YMCA Cancer Survivorship Program, visit: Moffitt.org/YMCASurvivorshipFlyer to view the program flyer or contact your local YMCA branch for availability and participation requirements.

This story was originally published in the PARTNERS newsletter. Visit Moffitt.org/PARTNERS for more stories and to learn more.