Sarasota YMCA

The Sarasota YMCA is much more than youth sports initiatives and gym facilities in the region. The organization is dedicated to providing programs that enrich lives, promote acceptance and build self-esteem for all – regardless of age or socioeconomic background. By partnering with large scale, nationwide organizations, the local branches of the Sarasota YMCA expand the horizons of the community. One such program is LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, which can be taken at both local YMCA branches. Dedicated to serving cancer survivors and improving their quality of life, local YMCA branches make a big difference in the lives of those touched by cancer in our own backyard.

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is an evidence-based program based on best practices for cancer survivor exercise. The goals of the program are to empower adult cancer survivors to improve functional capacity and to increase their quality of life through an organized program of fitness and strength offered in a supportive, small-group setting.

Each program includes specific goals like cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, balance and flexibility exercises throughout a 12 week period. At each 90-minute class, a small group environment is stressed to foster support for survivors. Adults 18 or older that are currently living with or are beyond cancer treatments are eligible for classes. 

Since LIVESTRONG partnered with YMCA USA in 2007, over 33,000 survivors have benefitted from these classes, which aim to improve the quality of life for participants and decrease cancer-related fatigue. Sarasota YMCA is dedicated to contributing to these positive statistics by making LIVESTRONG classes available at the Frank G. Berlin, Sr. and Evalyn Sadlier Jones branches.

For more information on LIVESTRONG at the YMCA visit sarasotaymca.org/livestrong or visit sarasotaymca.org for other positive programs at the Sarasota YMCA.