We are constantly working to identify and support the different needs of the members of our community.

We offer broad and specialized programs to help our members achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle, regardless of their state of health, including nutrition and health programs, therapeutic programs, and dedicated programs for members managing or recovering from illness.

NEW! Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)

The YMCA’s National Diabetes Prevention Program can help you actively engage in moving towards your personal health and wellness goals. Participation in this program at the YMCA will connect you with a lifestyle coach and a greater community of like-minded health-seekers that will motivate you in your journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

If you have been diagnosed with prediabetes or believe you may be at risk for developing diabetes, the Y is here to help you! This small-group program can help you eat healthier, find new ways to engage in regular physical activity, and lose weight, which can delay or even prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. Led by trained lifestyle coaches, the program strives to help participants achieve two primary goals:

• Reduce body weight by 5-7%
• Increase physical activity to 150 minutes per week

To find out your participation readiness, fill out the self-assessment form here. For additional information or to participate, please contact Eva Saint at 203-920-1623 or by email.

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

The New Canaan YMCA is proud to offer LIVESTRONG at the YMCA free to our community’s cancer survivors.  LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a research-based physical activity and well-being program designed to help adult cancer survivors reclaim their total health.

Cancer is a life-changing disease that takes a tremendous physical and emotional toll on those affected. The Y and the LIVESTRONG foundation have joined together to create LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, a research-based physical activity and well-being program designed to help adult cancer survivors reclaim their total health.  Since launching the program in 2013, the New Canaan YMCA has supported over 100 of our community’s cancer survivors through this program.

The New Canaan YMCA is proud to offer this program free to our community’s cancer survivors. Participants will work with Y staff trained in supportive cancer care to safely achieve their goals such as building muscle mass and strength; increasing flexibility and endurance; and improving confidence and self-esteem. By focusing on the whole person and not the disease, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is helping people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body.

The 12-week program is free to cancer survivors in the community with a physician’s clearance. The program includes two weekly group classes, taught by trained LIVESTRONG at the YMCA instructors, as well as full access to the Y for the 12 weeks.

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Intake Form

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Informed Consent Form

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Medical Clearance Form

To learn more about this program and/or to participate, please contact Eva Saint at 203-920-1623.

Exercise for Parkinson’s

Studies have shown that regular exercise can slow disease progression, boost mood, build independence, and improve strength, mobility, gait, and balance for those living with Parkinson’s disease. This exercise program is taught in a small group setting under the direction of a nationally certified Parkinson’s exercise instructor. In this class, you will be guided through cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, balance, and vocalization activities, designed to help you manage daily challenges, improve quality of life, regain mobility, and maintain independence.  Exercises can be adapted to all levels.

To learn more about this program and/or to participate, please contact Eva Saint at 203-920-1623.

Exercise for Parkinson’s Informed Consent Form

Exercise for Parkinson’s Medical Clearance Form

Click here to register for the winter session.

Nutritional Counseling

The New Canaan YMCA offers nutrition counseling with a registered dietitian. A registered dietitian can help you improve quality of life through healthy eating habits, and educate about the connection between food, fitness, and health.

Are you confused with all the nutrition information available in the media and unsure of how to eat healthy? Healthy Eating is all about finding a balance of foods that will provide your body with what it needs for optimal health and vitality. Kristin Schnitzler, RD, CPT, will work with you to discover your healthy balance through nutritional counseling. Goals may include:

• weight loss/weight gain
• sports/exercise performance
• food intolerances/allergies
• digestive issues
• wellness and disease preventions: lowering cholesterol/triglycerides, managing blood sugar, and lowering blood pressure.

Sample menus, personal goal setting assistance, educational materials and recipes included.

Nutritional Counseling Initial Assessment – $199 (Member) / $250 (Non-Member)

Includes initial 1 hour nutrition assessment to set nutritional goals and analyze current diet and exercise regimen plus two 30-minute individual follow-up sessions.

After Initial Assessment – Packages are available for 30-minute follow up Sessions:
1 Session – $75 (Member) / $95 (Non-Member)
3 Sessions – $215 (Member) / $270 (Non-Member)
5 Sessions – $325 (Member) / $410 (Non-Member)

For more information, please contact Kristin Schnitzler, MS, RD, Group Wellness Director at 203-920-1636.