Healthy Living

Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program

The YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program (BPSMP) helps 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.

Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP)

The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) is a low-cost evidence-based intervention developed by Dr. Kate Lorig through the Stanford University School of Medicine. CDSMP is designed for adults with a variety of chronic conditions (e.g. arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, lung disease, etc.) to gain self-efficacy and education through interactive peer support. For six weeks, workshops gather in convenient community settings and are facilitated by a pair of trained leaders - one or both of whom is a non-health professional living with a chronic disease.

Enhance® Fitness

Enhance®Fitness is an evidence-based group exercise program for older adults that uses simple, easy-to-learn movements that motivate individuals - particularly those with arthritis - to stay active throughout their life. Each class session includes cardiovascular, strength training, balance and flexibility exercises and the fostering of strong social relationships between participants.

Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) Standards

In response to a call by First Lady Michelle Obama and the Partnership for a Healthier America, the Y has expanded its longtime commitment to supporting healthy living by adopting a set of Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) standards. Based, in part, on years of research with key partners, the HEPA standards will build a healthier future for our nation’s children by creating environments rich in opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity. Visit Meet HEPA to learn more about the Y’s food, beverage, screen time, infant feeding, physical activity and family engagement standards. 

Walkability Initiative

In Step It Up! The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Promote Walking and Walkable Communities, the U.S. Surgeon General made clear that there is an urgent need to promote physical activity to prevent and control disease. With one out of every two American adults living with a chronic disease, such as heart disease, cancer or diabetes and a growing number of children and youth at risk or living with these diseases, it is critical that states takes action. The Alliance works to educate leaders and advance policy on the health and economic benefits of walkability and walkable communities, Safe Routes to Schools and Complete Streets.

Livestrong at the YMCA

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a program for adult cancer survivors. They participate in a YMCA health and fitness program in a small group setting. Participants need to obtain medical clearance from their doctor before attending LIVESTRONG at the YMCA. This evidence based health initiative provides cancer survivors with an opportunity to improve their physical fitness and emotional well-being.