HomeHealthy livingLIVESTRONG at the YMCA
Partners in Healing the Whole Person

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

Cancer is a life-changing disease that takes a tremendous physical and emotional toll on those affected. The Y and the LIVESTRONG® Foundation have joined together to create LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, a researched-based program designed to help adult cancer survivors reclaim their health and begin their journey toward recovery.

The Need for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA

Medical studies have shown that moderate levels of appropriate physical activity can reduce fatigue, boost self-esteem, and improve muscle strength and physical endurance in individuals following cancer treatment. Cancer survivors themselves are increasingly aware of the positive impact that moderate physical activity, supportive relationships, and stress reduction techniques can have on their quality of life. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA has helped thousands of cancer survivors move beyond cancer in spirit, mind, and body. 

The Program

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a research-based physical activity and well-being program designed to help adult cancer survivors reclaim their total health. The free, 12-week program meets twice per week for 90 minutes. Participants work with Y staff trained in supportive cancer care to safely achieve their goals such as building muscle mass and strength; increasing flexibility and endurance; and improving confidence and self-esteem.

By focusing on the whole person and not the disease, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is helping people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind, and body. Just as important, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA encourages a warm spirit of community – a safe, comfortable place for you to build companionship and share inspiration with others affected by cancer.

Program Features

Expert, Caring Instructors

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA instructors have been specifically trained to work with cancer survivors and follow American College of Sports Medicine and American Cancer Society exercise guidelines. They are exercise experts who can understand your unique physical needs and concerns and help you address them safely. Our caring and empathetic instructors connect and develop relationships with and among cancer survivors and their families, supporting them every step of the way.

“I knew that my future health and long-term survival depended on getting physically stronger. I needed to do this program to reclaim my life. From the first interview, I was welcome by people who seemed to genuinely care about my success. Getting to know my group members was an on-going inspiration and I found myself in awe of their courage and determination.

I know from finishing the program that I feel a sense of belonging at the Y. I’ve come to see the overall culture of the Y mirrors what I feel in LIVESTRONG: the Y exists in order to help all of us become our best selves.”

-Donna, LIVESTRONG participant

Honoring the Life of Tina Leehr

2023 LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA Fundraiser

Gretchen Leehr and Matt Krawczyk are raising money for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA to help cancer patients and survivors, like Tina, receive the life-changing benefits of the program at no cost. Donations will benefit the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program at the YMCA of Greater Waukesha County, where Matt serves as a board member.

Program schedule

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

MUKWONAGO YMCA

Tuesday & Thursday

February 11 – May 1, 2025

12:00 PM -1:30 PM


LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

SOUTHWEST YMCA

Monday & Wednesday

March 3 – May 21, 2025

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM


LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

TRI COUNTY YMCA

To be determined.


LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

WAUKESHA YMCA

Monday & Wednesday

February 24 – May 14, 2025

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM


LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

WEST SUBURBAN YMCA

Monday & Wednesday

February 17 – May 7, 2025

11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Interested in Participating?

CONTACT US TO REGISTER

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