Page 6 - YMCA of the Suncoast 2023 Annual Report

HEALTHY LIVING ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
BUILDING
A HEALTHY SPIRIT, MIND & BODY
A healthy spirit, mind and body are the very foundations of a healthy life. The YMCA of the Suncoast is where community members come together for a healthy lifestyle.
Our YMCAs are places for families to connect, individuals to challenge themselves physically, seniors to stay active and where everyone finds a warm welcome and sense of belonging.
In 2023, we launched The YMCA Survivorship
& Wellness Program Powered by Moffitt. The
free initiative started last June and provides two sessions a week that are facilitated by YMCA- certified instructors. They focus on cardiovascular conditioning, building strength and improving balance and flexibility. In our YMCA facilities across Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus counties, we provide essential support and encouragement to cancer survivors as they bravely navigate their journey against this illness.
The Y continued its success with Chronic Disease Prevention programs such as our Diabetes Prevention Program, Pedaling for Parkinson’s, Enhance®Fitness and Moving for Better Balance.
Research continues to show that working out your mind and body helps to lead a long, healthy, happy life. Such research drives many seniors
to focus on their continued well-being through the Y’s Healthy Aging programs. Whether it’s
engaging in group exercise classes like yoga, water aerobics and Enhanced Fitness classes
or joining in on a YMCA potluck or field trip,
our active older adults aren’t just working out
– they’re building relationships and forming communities to help combat senior isolation and loneliness every day.
The Y offers evidence-based programs to
help adults reclaim health because a chronic health diagnosis can be devastating – and this can happen to anyone, even those who live
the healthiest lifestyles. The symptoms and treatment of such life-changing diseases can
take a tremendous physical and emotional toll. Pedaling for Parkinson’s is an indoor group cycling program for those living with Parkinson’s disease. Research has shown a 35% reduction in symptoms by the simple act of pedaling a bike at a rapid pace. In addition to the physical benefits, participants are building friendships and gaining support through group interactions. Likewise, Enhance®Fitness has been proven to reduce falls in older adults as well as improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Through low- impact exercise, participants become more active, energized and empowered for independent living.
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YMCA OF THE SUNCOAST | ANNUAL REPORT 2023 | BUILDING FOR BETTER