Enhance®Fitness

Program Overview

EnhanceFitness is a proven community-based senior fitness and arthritis management program. It helps older adults become more active, energized, and empowered for independent living.

EnhanceFitness has been nationally recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Department of Health and Human Services, US Department on Aging, and the National Council on Aging.

Classes are offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. A complete schedule can be found here. Pre-registration is required for this program. For more information, contact Lynne Zusi, Healthy Living Director, at lynne.zusi@hrymca.org.

In Each Enhance Fitness Class, Participants Experience:

  • A certified instructor with special training.
  • Exercises focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance which can help reduce the severity of arthritis symptoms.
  • An atmosphere that encourages social interaction, which is a vital part of health and well-being for older adults.

Who Qualifies?

EnhanceFitness welcomes older adults at all fitness levels. The program is especially beneficial for older adults living with arthritis.

Participant Satisfaction

Over 99% of participants say they would recommend EnhanceFitness to a friend3

“At the encouragement of my medical provider, I began attending Enhance Fitness classes at the YMCA. Since starting I have seen improvements in my strength, mobility, and agility, and my blood pressure has even improved! My favorite thing about the Y is getting to know my friendly classmates and staff at the Y.”

—Eleanor Gilmore, YMCA of Greater Seattle

Proven Results

participant retention rate1

improvement in social functioning1

improvement in physical functioning1

945
average reduction in health care costs per year2

References:

  1. Wallace JI, Buchner DM, Grothaus L, Leveille S, Tyll L, LaCroix AZ, Wagner EH. (1998). Implementation and effectiveness of a community-based health promotion program for older adults. Journal of Gerontology 53A(4): M301-M306.
  2. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2013). Report to Congress: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ evaluation of community-based wellness and prevention programs under section 4202 (b) of the Affordable Care Act. Washington: Government Printing Office.
  3. Senior Services. (2013). What is EnhanceFitness?. Retrieved from projectenhance.org and Y-USA evaluation findings.