National Cancer Prevention Month - Get Moving at Any Age!

According to research, *4 out of 10 cancer cases in the United States are associated with preventable risk factors. Excess body weight, poor diet and physical inactivity are factors that contribute to increased cancer risk. For National Cancer Prevention Month, the Y believes a healthy lifestyle can start at any age - and we're here to help! We've used the following recommendations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to share the suggested minimum physical activity levels per age group, along with our dedicated Y classes or programs that can help you get started.** No matter where you are on your health and wellness journey, the Shiawassee Family YMCA is here for you every step of the way!

Preschool-Age Children
For preschool-age children, it is recommended that they participate in physical activity throughout the day to enhance growth and development. Three hours per day of activity of all intensities is suggested.
The Shiawassee Family YMCA offers a variety of youth sports programs for children including Itty Bitty Soccer, Zumbini, Gymnastics, and Basketball. More information on programs for preschool-age children can be found on our Program Page.

School-Age Children and Adolescents
For school-age children and adolescents, 60 minutes or more of physical activity should be conducted each day. Muscle and bone-strengthening exercises, such as push-ups, should be performed at least three days per week. 
Not only do we have a wide variety of programming for school-age children, we also offer youth personal training, and before and after-school care. Both Boxcar (Durand schools) and The Learning Zone (Owosso schools) programs offer a structured curriculum that includes daily physical activity. For more information, please visit our Youth Program Page.

Adults
All adults should avoid inactivity; some physical activity is better than none. At least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous activity, is recommended. It is also suggested that adults partake in moderate or high-intensity muscle-strengthening activities two ore more days per week. 
The Shiawassee Family YMCA offers many opportunities for adults to get in some physical activity including free pickleball and racquetball for members, free group exercise classes for members, personal training with certified trainers, and a variety of weights and machines in our fitness center. Check out our group exercise class schedule here!

Specific Populations
Older adults, those who are pregnant and/or those with chronic health conditions and disabilities should consult their physicians and follow modified guidelines. Cancer survivors should consult their physicians and follow modified guidelines adapted for their specific caners and treatments. 
LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a 12-week health and wellness program designed for adult cancer survivors who have recently become deconditioned or chronically fatigued from their treatment and the disease itself. More information about this program can be found on our LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA webpage.
*Research taken from the American Association for Cancer Research Progress Report 2022: https://cancerprogressreport.aacr.org/progress/
**Taken from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommendations: https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf