LiveSTRONG at the YMCA

RECLAIM YOUR HEALTH AFTER DIAGNOSIS OR RECOVERY

LiveSTRONG® at the YMCA empowers adult cancer survivors to improve their quality of life through an organized program that combines a fitness routine with emotional support.

 Through this 12-week exercise program, participants work to improve cardiovascular endurance and muscular, strength, enhance flexibility, balance, and boost confidence.  In addition to physical benefits, the program focuses on the mental and emotional well-being of survivors. A supportive community environment where participants can connect during and beyond.  

By focusing on health, rather than the disease, LiveSTRONG at the YMCA has helped over 76,952 survivors in 400 communities 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
  • Complimentary Membership during the duration of the program

2025 UPCOMING CLASSES

Riverwalk YMCA

  • Feb. 10 – Apr. 28 | 5:30pm – 7:00pm | Mon. and Wed.
  • Sept. 3 – Nov. 19 | 5:30-7:00pm | Mon. and Wed.
Indian Land YMCA
  • Jan. 14 – Apr. 3 | 12:00pm – 1:30pm | Tues. and Thurs.
  • Aug. 19 – Nov. 6 | 12:00pm-1:30pm | Tues. and Thurs.
CSD Community YMCA
  • Mar. 3-May 30 | 5:30-7:00pm | Mon. and Wed.
  • Sept. 8 – Dec. 5 | 1:30pm-3:00pm | Mon. and Wed.
Gregory Family YMCA
  • Jan. 7 – Mar. 27 | 1:00pm – 2:30pm | Tues. and Thurs.
  • Sept. 9-Dec. 4 | 1:00pm-2:30pm | Tues. and Thurs.
 
Baxter Close YMCA
    • Jan. 7-Mar. 27 | 12:00pm-1:30pm | Tues. and Thur.
    • Aug. 12-Oct. 30 | 12:00pm-1:30pm | Tues. and Thurs.
 
 

For Physicians

To refer a patient please complete a medical clearance form and provide is to the patient. For questions or concerns, please contact [email protected]

Medical Clearance Form
Helpful Information

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.