Cancer is a life-changing disease that takes a tremendous physical and emotional toll on those affected.
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a research-based physical and well-being program designed to help adult cancer survivors reclaim their total health. This free 12-week small-group recovery program is offered to adult cancer survivors looking to regain their health and strength in a supportive environment. Participants work with specially trained Y staff to customize the program to their individual needs. For the duration of the program, participants also receive a Summit Area YMCA membership. Common goals include rebuilding muscle mass & strength, increasing flexibility and endurance, reducing fatigue, and improving confidence and self-esteem. Physician-approved medical clearance is required to participate.
September 16 to December 4
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:00-7:15 PM
October 20 to January 14
(No Class 12/24 and 12/31)
Mondays & Wednesdays
1:00-2:15 PM
If you’re interested in participating in the program, please complete an inquiry form. After reviewing your submission, we’ll contact you to confirm your medical clearance (must be approved by a physician).
Saturday, November 15, 9:45 AM–12:00 PM, Berkeley Heights YMCA
We’re inviting all LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA graduates to reconnect, recharge, and celebrate the incredible journey of strength, resilience, and community we’ve shared. Join us on Saturday, November 15, from 9:45 AM–12:00 PM at the Berkeley Heights YMCA. We’ll begin the morning with a gentle yoga session, followed by a celebratory brunch to honor our progress, strength, and friendships that continue to grow.
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA fulfills the important need of supporting the increasing number of survivors who find themselves in the transitional period between completing their cancer treatment and the shift to feeling physically and emotionally strong enough to return to their normal life or their “new normal”. The program is conducted outside of medical facilities to emphasize that LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is about health, not disease.
At the YMCA, we are committed to supporting the millions of cancer survivors who have benefited from the free, small group sessions which help those struggling emotionally, mentally and physically with the disease. Participants work with specially trained Y staff to customize the program to their individual needs. Common goals include building muscle mass and strength, increasing flexibility and endurance, and improving confidence and self-esteem. Our instructors are also specially trained in the elements of cancer, post-rehab exercise, and supportive cancer care. In addition, the program focuses on the emotional well-being of survivors and their families by providing a supportive “community” where people impacted by cancer can connect during treatment and beyond.
The Summit Area YMCA is one of more than 115 YMCAs across the nation to have received initial and limited grant funding from the LIVESTRONG® Foundation to deliver LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA to help cancer survivors achieve their holistic health and wellness goals. Since then the program at our Ys have been funded wholly through the generosity of our donors, sponsors and through grants from foundations. To date, our Ys have partnered to heal and help over 200+ cancer survivors and families in our local community.
