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Move for Stronger Bones

Strong bones help keep us active, independent, and ready for everyday life. Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing and resistance exercises, can help build and maintain bone density. Whether you’re walking, lifting weights, or enjoying a class at the Y, every movement is a step toward healthier bones.

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Stronger Starts With You

Strong Bones Start With Movement

Staying active does more than strengthen your muscles. It helps support strong, healthy bones, too. Weight bearing activities and resistance exercises stimulate bone growth and help maintain bone density, which can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

At the YMCA, movement can be simple and enjoyable. Try walking, climbing stairs, dancing, or adding strength exercises to your routine. Every step counts toward a stronger, healthier you.

Make Movement Part of Your Routine

The CDC recognizes regular physical activity as an important way to improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends regular aerobic and muscle strengthening activity for adults as part of a healthy, active lifestyle.

Move more. Build strength. Support your bones, together at the Y!

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Find your Strength Here

Build strength wherever your day takes you. With strength-training equipment at every branch and access to all six locations included in your membership, it’s easier to make the Y part of your routine.

Add group exercise classes and a welcoming community, and you’ll find plenty of ways to build strength, grow your confidence, and keep moving forward. Whether you’re picking up weights for the first time or returning to a routine, there’s a place for you here.

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Please also note that a “Join Fee” is listed when signing up online — this is not an additional cost. This fee represents 12 equal payments during your 1st year of membership, equaling our standard 1st year rates. You will then receive our Loyalty pricing after one continuous year of membership.

We are not currently able to apply corporate discounts or financial assistance to memberships when signing up online – we apologize for the inconvenience. However, those eligible for Corporate Discounts can join in-person by bringing employment verification to a YMCA of Greater Waukesha County membership desk, where your discount will be applied.

Weight-bearing activities and resistance training are important for bone health. Brisk walking, stair climbing, and dancing put weight through your bones, while free weights, resistance bands, and strength machines challenge your muscles and bones. Balance exercises complement these activities by helping reduce the risk of falls.

Walking is a weight-bearing activity that can help support bone health, but it should be part of a broader exercise routine. Adding resistance training provides another way to challenge your bones and strengthen your muscles. Balance activities can also help you stay steady and reduce your risk of falling.

Yes. Lifting weights places stress on bones through the pull of your muscles, helping support bone strength and density. You can use free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, or your own body weight. Start with resistance appropriate for your abilities and focus on proper technique.

Swimming and cycling benefit your heart, muscles, and overall fitness, but they do not provide the same weight-bearing stimulus as walking or other activities performed on your feet. If you enjoy swimming or cycling, keep them in your routine and add weight-bearing exercise and resistance training as your health allows.

Yes, but your routine should reflect your bone health, abilities, and fracture risk. Appropriate exercise can support bone and muscle strength and improve balance. Before starting, ask your healthcare provider or physical therapist which activities are suitable and whether any movements need to be modified or avoided.