Health Initiatives
Improving the nation’s health and well-being
The YMCA aims to improve our nation's health by providing programs and activities that promote overall well-being, no matter where you are on your journey toward better health. We believe, when people feel their best and have fulfilling lifestyles, their communities become stronger.
At the heart of the Y lies the power to transform—both yourself and the world around you. From our wide range of fitness, personal training, sports and aquatics programs, to our group social activities, as well as fun family and community events, we offer an array of options focused on strengthening spirit, mind and body.
Healthier Communities
We strive to strengthen the bond—and bridge the gap—between traditional healthcare and community-based preventative strategies. Efforts like increasing a community's walkability and linking policy and environmental strategies to health outcomes helps prevent chronic disease and create communities we all want to live in.
Our evidence based health intervention programs are just one way our Y is evolving to help meet the needs in our community. These chronic disease management programs help members manage and improve their daily quality of life, following a strict curriculum and tracking each participants progress. From arthritis to high blood pressure management and more, each program is run differently, but all are designed to show individuals how far they have come on their journey with the Y.
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Diabetes Prevention Program: Helps those at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles by eating healthier, increasing physical activity and losing a modest amount of weight in order to reduce their chances of developing the disease. This is a new program that will be offered beginning fall of 2025, sponsored by CDPHP. Learn more about our Diabetes Prevention Program.
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Healthy Weight and Your Child: A lifestyle change intervention designed to address childhood obesity by empowering children and families through education, healthy eating and physical activity. This is a new program that will be offered beginning fall of 2025, sponsored by CDPHP. Learn more about our Healthy Weight and Your Child program.
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LIVESTRONG at the YMCA: A physical activity and well-being program designed to help adult cancer survivors achieve their health goals. Learn more about LIVESTRONG at the YMCA here.
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Moving For Better Balance: Based on the principles of Tai Chi, this program offers a slow and therapeutic workout that addresses key components of fitness including flexibility, muscle strength, and balance. This program is sponsored by CDPHP. Learn more about Moving For Better Balance here.
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Pedaling for Parkinson's: Improve quality of life and provide education for individuals with Parkinson's and their caregivers. Learn more about Pedaling for Parkinson's here.
- Walk With Ease: Learn how to walk safely and comfortably, while improving your flexibility, strength, and stamina! Offered at the Battenkill, Malta, Saratoga Springs and Wilton branches. Learn more about Walk With Ease here.
We are here to help
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email questions@srymca.org or call 518-793-3878.
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Special thanks to CDPHP for sponsoring our Healthy Weight and Your Child, Moving for Better Balance and Diabetes Prevention Programs at the Glens Falls Branch for the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 sessions. |