AMHERST, N.S. – As the calendar turns from one year to another, more than a few people are making health a priority.
Whether it is eating healthier, or becoming physically – or spiritually – fit, a lot make New Year’s resolutions – some of which quickly fall by the wayside while others stick to those pledges. It’s those who want to become healthier that the Cumberland YMCA is reaching out to through its annual healthy living challenge, a 12-week program
“We are inviting people to invite us in a program designed to promote healthy body, spirit and mind,” YMCA fitness co-ordinator Laura Farrow said. “It’s not just the fitness piece, it’s really important to look after mental health and we hope to be the gateway that leads to healthier lifestyles and healthier living.”
Last year, 70 people began the program and more than half completed the challenge. Farrow said quite a few people who started with the program became members of the YMCA.
“That was impressive. Usually people start programs with the best of intentions, but sometimes life gets in the middle and people can’t continue,” she said. “What we’re trying to do is create opportunities for people to be active and social in a fun way so they don’t have to feel it’s work, or they dread coming.”
The program includes physical trainers working with the group and there is also individual contact so each person’s needs are assessed and addressed. Some people, she said, just want access to the facility and its programs, but others want the counselling and nutritional advice.
Along with fitness and nutritional advice, there are also sessions on the healthy mind and mental health.
Along with one-on-one or group sessions, Farrow said, participants will also be able to get help from trainers online through email or through the YMCA’s website.
“It’s an amazing program because you’re not going to find that all in one. We want people to get out and be social. We know isolation in winter can be hard and when it’s dark and cold it can be hard to be motivated to get out and be active and be social, Farrow said.
For further information, contact the YMCA at 902-667-9112.
There is an information session on Jan. 3 at the YMCA.
The program begins on Jan. 7, but people can register after that date.
The cost is $135.
Twitter: @ADNdarrell
