Walk With Ease
The Ragsdale Y is launching the new Walk with Ease program! The Walk With Ease course will be offered for a total of 18 sessions, and participants are encouraged to attend at least 12 to experience the full benefits.
The program's new classes at the Ragsdale Y will begin April 7 at 11 a.m.-12 p.m. and will be offered every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Walk With Ease is a 6-week, evidence-based group exercise walking program for adults with, or without, arthritis. The program has been proven effective in the following areas:
- Increasing balance, strength and walking pace
- Reducing pain and discomfort of arthritis and/or joint pain
- Helping with weight loss
- Improving mental health, flexibility and overall physical health
In addition, Walk With Ease is the only walking program identified as arthritis-appropriate and evidence-based by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Is Walk With Ease Right for You?
Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults—but many falls can be prevented with the right support. Take a moment to complete our YMCA Falls Risk Assessment to better understand your fall risk and explore programs tailored to your needs. If you or someone you know could benefit from improved balance and mobility, Walk with Ease may be a perfect fit.
How Does it Work?
Walk With Ease is conducted as a group and is led by one to two certified leaders. Participants take 30-minute walks and learn stretching, warmup and basic exercise techniques. The program also includes health education, strengthening exercises and motivational strategies.
Participants commit to three walks per week for six weeks and will take simple pre- and post-program health evaluations. There is also a program option that encourages walking on one’s own and/or once weekly group walking sessions, with support through online and email resources.
Schedule and Locations
- Mary Perry Ragsdale Family YMCA (900 Bonner Drive, Jamestown NC 27282).
- The in-person program runs from 11am-12pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
- Starting August 19, 2024 through September 30, 2024.
Who Can Participate?
We are proud to offer our Walk With Ease program free to the community thanks to grant funding. Anyone can participate, and all walks are handicapped accessible.