Connect
LIVESTRONG Program, returning to physical activity after treatment
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a 12-week small-group fitness program for adult cancer survivors who have become de-conditioned or chronically fatigued from their treatment and/or disease.
Program includes:
• Free 12 week YMCA membership for survivor and primary caregiver
• Two 75 minute classes per week
• A combination of individual instruction and group activities
• Workouts include cardiovascular exercise, strength training, stretching, and balance work
• Full facility access to the Rochester Area Family Y
Criteria for Participation:
• Any adult who is currently going through cancer treatment or has gone through some form of cancer treatment in the past that wants to regain their health and well being
• Personally commit to attending all classes
• Inform your physician that you plan to join the program
• Participants must receive medical clearance and are evaluated on an individual basis
• Complete screening forms and answer a health questionnaire
• Give permission for the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Program Coordinator to contact your health care provider if necessary
For more information about the program, visit: https://rochesterymca.org/livestrong/
Contact information:
E-mail: livestrong@ymcamn.org
Phone: (507) 287-2260
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Cancer: Managing Symptoms Support Group.
Connect
Hi Rachel, welcome to Connect.
Have you taken the Livestrong program at the Rochester YMCA or are you planning to sign up for it? Would love to hear about your experience.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsHi Teresa, I currently volunteer with the Livestrong program while I am in nursing school here. It is an amazing experience as a volunteer too!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsI graduated from the livestrong program this past December. I couldn't believe what a big difference that twelve week program had on me.
Having gone through surgery to remove a foot of my colon My lower body was still weak a year and half later. The livestrong class increased my lower body strength by 75 percent.
The other ladies in the class all had upper body surgeries . After the twelve weeks, their upper body strength also increased by fourfold.
Great class and totally free. I highly recommend the livestrong program.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 Reactions@travelgirl, The Livestrong program sounds interesting. Is that through the Mayo?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 Reaction@windwalker This was not through Mayo clinic. It is through the Livestrong Foundation. I have passed this charity on to so many people. They really do help people. It is a wonderful foundation. Here is their web page https://www.livestrong.org/
<p>In fall 2019 I participated in the YMCA Rochester MN Livestrong program. Great way to start exercising after treatment. There were people in program who were actually still in treatment, it depends on your dr. giving the OK to participate. There is no charge to participate.</p><p>If live in Rochester MN area, they have two new sessions scheduled for winter 2020, Feb 4- April 23rd 1:30-2:45 and March 2-May 20 5:30-7.<br />If interested, see https://www.ymcamn.org/health__fitness/condition_specific_programs/livestrong</p><p>If in interested in Livestrong at other Y locations, see<br />https://www.livestrong.org/what-we-do/program/livestrong-at-the-ymca</p><p>Laurie</p>
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHi @roch, another great testament to the Livestrong exercise program. What do you recommend specifically about the Livestrong program for cancer survivors? How does it differ from regular exercise programs for you?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionColleen asked me for additional info about Livestrong:
What do you recommend specifically about the Livestrong program for cancer survivors?
With the Livestrong program you are with a group that understand when cancer treatments are done, you are still recovering and your body has it's limitation. The staff and volunteers at Rochester Y were great. Our group consisted of variety of ages and ability. Some used a cane or had other limitations. The staff will work with you to modify workouts within your limitations.
During the free 12 week Livestrong program, your have access to all the Y has to offer. In addition to Livestrong classes, I also attended water aerobics and chair yoga class. You can use pool, gym, weight room, etc....
If you have a caretaker or spouse, they can also sign up for a 12 week free membership.
How does it differ from regular exercise programs for you?
I think the most difference is this class was much more personalized. Staff knew your name and before class starts meet with you one on one.
Most of people in group are working out for first time since treatments.
If I would of went to regular exercise class, I might of got embarrassed or frustrated with my inability to keep up and probably would of quit. With this class your were encouraged to do what you can. Doing anything is better then doing nothing.
The group met at beginning and end of workouts to discuss any problems you were having.
It is a combination of cardio, strength and balance. We also had other Y instructors join us to do mini-classes like Yoga and balance class.
Laurie
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsI went through the LIveStrong program from Sept-Dec, 2019 @ the Y in Bismarck, ND. Awesome program that exposed us(6 participants and their caregivers) to balance, cardio, weight training, yoga, and a form of line dancing. For me, I loved getting acquainted with the different weight and cardio machines, and I do love yoga(the best thing I’ve ever done for my body.) I’m stronger, have more endurance, and enjoy the friendship and sharing with other cancer survivors. It’s also a great program to lessen anxiety and depression. Go for it!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 Reactions