LiveSTRONG at the YMCA

LIFE AFTER CANCER DIAGNOSIS

The LiveSTRONG at the YMCA program is fully funded by donations and grants to engage cancer survivors through an approach that focuses on the whole person, body, mind and spirit. Through this  12-week exercise program, participants work to improve cardiovascular endurance and muscular,  strength, enhance flexibility and balance and boost confidence.  In addition to physical benefits, the program also focuses on the mental and emotional well-being of survivors.  This creates a supportive community environment where participants can connect during treatment and beyond.  

By focusing on health, rather than the disease, LiveSTRONG at the YMCA has helped over 35,000 survivors in 40 states move beyond the illness to reclaim their health after a diagnosis. 

Program Benefits

  • Connect with local cancer survivors
  • Learn and apply the foundations of exercise
  • Increase your stamina, energy levels, and sleep
  • Increasing/maintaining muscle mass
  • Reduce side effects of cancer treatments
  • Increase the quality of life!

Program Overview 

  • 12-week small group exercise and support program
  • Meets 2 times a week for 90 minutes each session
  • Participants are considered survivors the day of diagnosis

UPCOMING CLASSES

Gregory Family YMCA
Jan 23rd - Apr 9th |
1:00 - 2:30

Tues and Thurs

Indian Land YMCA
Jan 23rd – Apr 25th |
12:00pm – 1:30pm
Tues and Thurs

CSD Community YMCA
Jan 30th - Apr 18th |
1:30pm - 3:00pm
Mon and Wed
   

Riverwalk YMCA
Mar 12th – May 31st
5:30pm – 7:00pm
Tues and Thurs

Indian Land YMCA
May 7th - Aug 1st |
12:00 pm - 1:30pm
Tues and Thurs
Riverwalk YMCA
Jul 23rd - Oct 3rd |
5:30pm - 7:00pm
Tues and Thurs
Indian Land YMCA
Aug 27th – Nov 14th |     
12:00pm – 1:30pm 
Tues and Thurs
Gregory Family YMCA
Sep 3rd - Nov 21st |
1:00pm - 2:30pm

Tues and Thurs             
Baxter Close YMCA
Aug 26th - Nov 14 | 
10:30am - 12:00pm
Tues and Thurs
CSD Community YMCA
Sep 23rd - May 24th |
1:30pm - 3:00pm

Mon and Wed

For Physicians

To refer a patient please complete a medical clearance form.
Medical Clearance Form
 Choose One:
Helpful Information
 
Registration Form
Choose One:

For questions about the program, please contact:

Jennie Dawkins, 
Community Health Director
[email protected] 

Thanks to the support of our donors, LiveSTRONG at the YMCA is offered at no cost to cancer survivors. Space is limited for each session to allow for a low instructor-to-participant ratio. 

Angie Smith

Angie Smith, is a gifted writer, encourager and loving mother of four. Together with her husband, former NFL player Steve Smith, they established The Steve Smith Family Foundation, which is dedicated to providing hope and inspiration to those in need while advancing causes  close to the family’s heart – Promoting family health & wellness as well as the awareness and prevention of domestic violence.

In 2022, The Steve Smith Foundation and Mecklenburg County partnered to create Charlotte’s first behavioral health urgent care, a 24/7, 365 urgent care facility dedicated to mental health and substance abuse needs.

Angie’s commitment to her family, transparency and unselfishness, by putting other’s needs before her own, is an inspiration to all of us!

Alan Tyson

Alan Tyson is the President Architech Sports and Physical Therapy. He was the former Vice President of Sports Performance and Rehabilitation for OrthoCarolina. He is a physical therapist board certified as a sports clinical specialist, a certified athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist. He has worked with the Charlotte Knights (AAA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox) and continues to serve as a consultant to the team. Alan is also a consultant with the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Eagles.

Alan has spoken regionally and nationally on various training topics including the foot and ankle, spine care, hip and knee rehabilitation, and he has developed two continuing education courses on the shoulder. He has written 3 books and developed specific training programs for the female athlete, the baseball pitcher, and for football players preparing for the NFL combines. Alan is also an associate editor of the National Strength and Conditioning Journal. He co-hosted a weekly radio show “Health Headlines” on 1110AM WBT with Stacey Sims and Dr. Russ Greenfield for 3 years.

Antoinette Johnson

Meet Antoinette Johnson, the inspiring culinary star of “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation” Hailing from Lexington, KY, she transforms simple, humble ingredients into extraordinary dishes, all while championing the use of fresh, locally-sourced produce. Through her triumph on “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation,” Antoinette’s unwavering perseverance catapulted her career, proving that with passion and determination, anything is possible. With a heart dedicated to community and a love for supporting local farmers, Antoinette’s journey is a testament to embracing change, fostering growth, and inspiring others to follow their culinary dreams.

Beyond her culinary triumphs, Antoinette is a firm believer in the power of evolution and perseverance. She stands as a shining example of how one can constantly evolve, change, and grow on their journey to success. Antoinette’s story is one of resilience and determination, inspiring others to follow their passions despite any challenges they may encounter.

Now, with a cookbook deal and cash grand prize, Antoinette is forging ahead on her culinary adventure, driven by the desire to prove herself and inspire her daughter.