Moving For Better Balance

The Alliance of New York State YMCAs supports a host of Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Programs across the state. 

By offering programs that promote wellness and manage chronic diseases such as hypertension, arthritis, diabetes and cancer, the YMCA aims to improve the nation’s health and well-being, reduce risk for disease and help individuals reclaim their health.  

 

Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program

Diabetes Prevention Program

Enhance®Fitness

Healthy Weight and Your Child 

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA

Moving For Better Balance

Walk With Ease

 

To learn more about a Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Program at a YMCA near you, contact Martha Petteys, director of Healthy Living at mpetteys@ymcanys.org

Every 14 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In the United States, falls related injuries are a major public health concern for individuals over 65 as well as those living with chronic conditions such as heart disease.

Moving For Better Balance is an evidence-based program developed by researchers at the Oregon Research Institute. 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.

When combined with standard treatment, programs like Moving For Better Balance may help alleviate the symptoms associated with other chronic diseases and conditions. A small group-based exercise program that can be offered in any community setting, Moving For Better Balance is led by a Y-USA trained Instructor and teaches eight movements modified especially for falls prevention. Over the course of 12 weeks, the program is designed to take place two times a week for 60-90 minutes and is supplemented by 2+ hours of at-home practice per week.