America is on the Move Through YMCA Initiative

AUBURN – The YMCA will take part in the national initiative known as YMCA Activate America(R) for the third year. Activate America is the YMCA’s response to the nation’s growing health crisis.

Through Activate America, the YMCA is redefining itself and engaging communities across the country to provide better opportunities for people of all ages in their pursuit of health and well being. The YMCA will participate by offering an open house from Saturday through Saturday, Sept. 20 to 27, opening its facility to all at no charge.

During the America on the Move Week with the YMCA, families and individuals are encouraged to be more active and eat better by making healthier food choices.

“Steps” will be awarded for actual steps taken during the week as well as equivalents for all other forms of physical activity, such as swimming, biking and dancing and other group or family activities that promote well being. Healthy Family Homes research has shown that these kinds of family activities can produce significant long- term results.

Research by the America on the Move Foundation has shown that ma- ing two small daily changes – taking 2,000 more steps and eating 100 fewer calories – can prevent the average annual weight gain of one to two pounds.

Participants can begin to track their “steps” by registering at the YMCA to request a free America on the Move Quick Start Guide with a tracking form and step conversions for common exercises and activities.

America on the Move Week will kick off from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday. Sept. 20, with a Family Fun Day. There will be a family open swim, family yoga classes and gym games along with face painting and healthy snacks.

Activities planned for Sept. 22 to 26 consist of a pilates workshop, nutrition workshop, special group exercise classes, family open gym, family open swim, launch of a new SilverSplash water fitness program and launch of a new homeschool sports program. Call the YMCA at 795-4095 or visit www.alymca.com for a complete schedule of activities.

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