Cancer-informed exercise recovery
Livestrong at the YMCA is a 12-week physical activity program designed to help adult cancer survivors regain strength, energy, and community at their local YMCA. It equips those living with, through, or beyond cancer to get back on their feet and connect with other survivors. Participants enjoy free or low-cost exercise regimens catered to their individual needs. Sessions are led by certified fitness instructors at YMCA of the USA locations across the country. Instructors are trained in cancer survivorship, post-rehabilitation exercise, and supportive cancer care.
How to Sign Up for Livestrong at the YMCA
Step 1: Find a Participating YMCA
- Use the search bar in the section below titled “Find a YMCA in your area”
- Enter your ZIP code to see participating locations. If you do not have a YMCA in your area, you may explore CancerFit on Step #5 of this guide.
Step 2: Contact Your Local YMCA
- Once you find a participating YMCA, reach out directly by phone or email. Ask for the Livestrong at the YMCA Program Director or Coordinator.
- They’ll share class start dates, schedules, and details on how to register.
Step 3: Complete a Health Intake & Orientation
- You’ll typically complete a health intake form and may need a medical clearance from your doctor.
- The YMCA staff will schedule an orientation session to introduce you to the program, trainers, and facility.
Step 4: Begin the 12-Week Program
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- You’ll join a small group (usually 8–12 participants) for two 75-minute sessions per week. Certified instructors (trained in cancer survivorship and exercise oncology) will guide you through:
- Strength and endurance training
- Cardiovascular fitness
- Flexibility and balance
- Emotional and social support
Step 5: Continue Your Wellness Journey
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- To support your continued recovery at home, explore CancerFit — our virtual fitness platform for cancer survivors. CancerFit offers live and on-demand classes led by personal trainers certified in exercise oncology, helping you:
- Maintain strength and mobility after your YMCA program
- Join live, interactive workouts from home
- Access a growing video library tailored for survivors at every stage of recovery
It’s the perfect companion to keep your momentum going — whether between YMCA sessions or beyond your 12-week journey.
- To support your continued recovery at home, explore CancerFit — our virtual fitness platform for cancer survivors. CancerFit offers live and on-demand classes led by personal trainers certified in exercise oncology, helping you:
FAQ - Getting Started
Livestrong at the YMCA is specifically for cancer survivors—every instructor is trained to understand treatment side effects and how to modify safely. You’ll also gain emotional support from others who “just get it” and hopefully build a community of supporters who are fighting alongside you.
We understand that access to the Livestrong at the YMCA program may be limited in some areas, and we recognize the importance of providing support to all survivors, regardless of location. That’s why we created CancerFit: Virtual classes designed specifically to help cancer survivors stay active and build strength from home or wherever they feel most comfortable. Learn more about CancerFit
Any adult who is living with, through, or beyond cancer is welcome. You don’t have to be a YMCA member to join.
The program is free or low-cost at most YMCAs, thanks to community support and Livestrong funding. Contact your local Y to learn about costs or scholarships in your area.
Not at all. The program is designed for all fitness levels—your instructor will meet you where you are and adapt exercises to your abilities and comfort level
FAQ - Getting Your YMCA Involved
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Livestrong at the YMCA classes were paused. To find out if the YMCA near you has resumed classes or is offering an online experience, please use the search tool and contact the branch directly.
In order to establish the program, YMCAs must first participate in an extensive training to ensure that the staff has the understanding, knowledge and skills to support cancer survivor participants in the Livestrong at the YMCA program. If you’d like to encourage your local Y to participate, speak to the Y’s Director, Associate Director, or Health and Wellness Director and recommend that they inquire about upcoming opportunities to apply for the program.
We understand that access to the Livestrong at the YMCA program may be limited in some areas, and we recognize the importance of providing support to all survivors, regardless of location. That’s why we created CancerFit: Virtual classes designed specifically to help cancer survivors stay active and build strength from home or wherever they feel most comfortable. Learn more about CancerFit
FAQ - Health & Safety
Yes, most YMCAs require a doctor’s note or medical clearance form before starting the program. This helps ensure your safety during exercise.
Your instructor will adapt every movement to your needs. Whether you’re managing fatigue, neuropathy, limited range of motion, or lymphedema, exercises can be modified safely
If your healthcare team approves, yes. Some participants join during maintenance or hormonal therapy. Your instructor will work closely with you to ensure comfort and safety.
No—sharing your story is completely optional. The focus is on physical and emotional well-being in a judgment-free space.
FAQ - After the Program
Many YMCAs offer alumni programs or special membership rates so you can continue your fitness journey. You’ll also stay connected with your instructor and classmates for continued support
If your local YMCA doesn’t yet offer the program, you can try CancerFit—a virtual version of workouts designed for cancer survivors.
Some YMCAs allow returning participants if space is available. Ask your instructor about re-enrollment or volunteer opportunities.
They can visit this site and use the locator tool to find a nearby YMCA or contact their local Y directly or reach out to us at YMCA@livestrong.org for more information.