LIVESTRONG at the YMCA: Support for Survivors in The Community

By Sheryl M. Ness, RN

One of the primary lifestyle strategies that we [the Mayo Clinic] encourage cancer survivors to add to their routine after treatment is over is exercise.

Getting started is sometimes the hardest part. LIVESTRONG Foundation is partnering with local YMCAs to provide a structured, supportive program to encourage cancer survivors to develop their own personal fitness program.

The 12-week, small group program is designed to work with adult cancer survivors as they make the transition from medical care to establishing new healthy lifestyle habits in their home and community.

The goals are:

Reduce the severity of treatment side effects

Prevent unwanted weight changes

Improve energy levels

Support positive self esteem

Incorporate physical activity that is safe for each survivor

Help build muscle strength

Increase flexibility and endurance

Improve functional ability

In addition to the benefits of physical activity, the program offers a sense of connection to fellow survivors.

Fitness instructors receive specialty training in the elements of cancer, post rehabilitation exercises and supportive cancer care. To learn more, visit the LIVESTRONG website, – http://www.livestrong.org/what-we-do/our-actions/livestrong-programs/ymca/.

Sheryl M. Ness, RN, is a nurse educator for the Cancer Education Program at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Follow her on Twitter at @SherylNess1.