Fitness and Wellness

We know how hard it can be to develop new workout habits. In fact, some studies show it takes about eight weeks to develop a workout routine that sticks.

The YMCA is here to help with our 8 Weeks to a Better You new member challenge. Every new member of the Y is automatically signed up for this fun, easy challenge.

The YMCA's Blood Pressure Self Monitoring program is a way for participants to work with healthy heart ambassadors and self-monitor their blood pressure. The program goal is a reduction in blood pressure, better management, increased awareness of triggers that elevate blood pressure and better knowledge to develop healthier eating habits.

In the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program, a trained Lifestyle Coach will introduce topics in a supportive, small group environment and encourage participants as they explore how healthy eating, physical activity and behavior changes can help reduce their risk for diabetes and benefit their overall health.

The Diabetes Prevention Program is a recognized program by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

The YMCA is offering a wearable heart rate tracker that will motivate you, connect you with others, and help you reach your wellness goals. The Myzone wearables will be available for sale beginning in February.

When you use your Myzone wearable you can see your effort, heart rate, and calories burned in our fitness studios.

Our YMCAs offer a wide variety of group fitness classes for almost every ability and interest.  You'll find low-impact and beginner classes, cardio fitness, dance, Pilates, cycle and Yoga and more advanced cycle, boot camp and kickboxing classes.

Healthy Weight and Your Child is a weight-management program that focuses on healthy eating, physical activity and behavior change to empower children and families to live healthier and more active lifestyles.

Evidence demonstrates that child weight-management programs are more effective when the whole family is involved and committed to adopting healthier habits. 

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is an evidence-based program for adult cancer survivors. Survivors participate in a health and fitness program with other survivors in a small group setting. Through the program, certified YMCA instructors help patients build muscle mass and strength, increase flexibility and endurance, and improve energy levels and self-esteem.

Moving for Better Balance is an evidence-based, falls-prevention program that uses the principles and movement of Tai Chi to help older adults improve balance and increase confidence for everyday activities.

The program is led by a trained instructor and focuses on improving functional ability to reduce fall-related risks and frequency for those with low to moderate risks of falls.

The YMCA is working with Nutrition HealthWorks to offer in-person nutrition counseling for members at the A.E. Finley, Alexander, Kraft and Northwest Cary YMCAs. Virtual nutrition counseling is available as well.

Nutrition HealthWorks specializes in weight management, medical wellness, sports nutrition, diabetes education and corporate nutrition for adults and children.

Our Y Health Membership team hosts monthly virtual online nutrition seminars, led by our Heart Healthy Ambassadors. These seminars are part of the Blood Pressure Self Monitoring program, but all Y members and other interested individuals are welcome to take part.

YMCA Personal Training is a one-on-one session with a personal fitness trainer. 

Our personal trainers are educated professionals often with years of experience who can help any YMCA member including working professionals, new moms, seniors and triathletes.

Small Group Training Sessions are led by a certified personal trainer and each session focuses on a specialized format such as strength training, endurance, or core. Participants will use ropes, kettlebells, bars, TRX equipment and more encouraging individual progression and skill development.

A variety of classes and times are offered throughout the Association.

Upcoming Classes

Classes change each quarter. 

Looking for a more personalized approach to starting your fitness journey? Start Strong is a multiple-week program* offered to all new YMCA Members. During this small group training, you'll work with a Wellness Coach and be introduced to different aspects of fitness.

Strength training classes target specific muscle groups or provide an overall workout. These classes include Blast, Ripped and Strong, Lean and Cut and Load and Lift. 

All classes are offered at YMCA locations around the Triangle. 

The YMCA Weight Loss Program is designed to help adults seeking a healthier weight achieve their goals by making small, modest changes to their daily behaviors and forming sustainable, healthy habits.

The YMCA offers adult and middle school wellness floor orientations for our new and existing members. 

Both orientations are hosted by YMCA wellness floor staff and include information on adjusting equipment to fit you, proper use of equipment, and wellness floor etiquette.