YMCA of the Twin Tiers

Active Older Adults

Active Older Adult Programs

The YMCA creates a supportive environment for people of all ages to thrive. Make new connections, have fun and improve your health through programs and social events that fit your lifestyle.

As you get older, you may find that you have a new set of fitness goals you want to achieve, such as improving your balance and flexibility. We’re committed to helping older adults stay physically and mentally healthy.

Each YMCA of the Twin Tiers branch offers different programming. Schedules are available by clicking the link below or in hard copy at the front desks. Programs are open to members and some to non-members. All Active Older Adult Group Exercise Classes are FREE for Y members. Registration not necessary. Guests may visit the Y up to 3 times per year and attend classes, space permitting.

Active Older Adult (AOA) Group Exercise Classes

Motion Plus: This traditionally active older adult class consists of
aerobic, strength, flexibility and balance exercises. Participants gather for coffee after class. It’s a terrific way to meet new people and feel great!

Strength Plus: This class will help increase muscular strength, flexibility, and balance. There is a mix of seated and standing exercises, however, seated exercise is an option after offered modifications.

Circuit Plus: Fun and fitness all in one class! By alternating between strength and cardio movement, we will exercise our strength, balance, and cardiovascular health all at once.

SilverSneakers: Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscle strength, range of movement, and activities for daily living. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a Silver Sneakers ball are offered for resistance. A chair is used for seated exercises and standing support. This class can be adapted by the participant depending on their fitness level and abilities. It is suitable for beginning to intermediate skill levels.

Stretch and Flex: This class focuses on functional training and cardiovascular health without using weights. Join us as we focus on improving mobility, flexibility, and stretching out and loosening up!

Tai Chi: This is a gentle and powerful body mind exercise. Learn several tai chi forms by practicing with slow, graceful movements and coordinated breathing. Benefits include: balance, flexibility, muscle strength, and cardiovascular fitness. This class is perfect for those who are just starting out, or the seasoned veteran!

Yoga: This class creates balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility. It is designed to relieve stress and bring peace of mind, body and spirit by focusing on breathing techniques, stretching, toning and relaxation. This class teaches fundamental poses with an emphasis on alignment. No previous Yoga experience required.

Group Exercise Class Schedules

Water Exercise Classes

AquaFit/Water Exercise: This class provides the same aerobic benefits but without the stress on your body! No swimming skills are necessary so join us in strengthening muscles and improving overall fitness!

Aqua Zumba®: This class blends the Zumba® philosophy with water resistance for one pool party you shouldn’t miss! Once the Latin and World rhythms take over, you’ll see why these classes are called exercise in disguise.

Aquatic Rehab: Y staff lead participants through a series of gentle exercises aimed to provide a well-rounded program for those people with slight injuries or those moving from the acute phase of rehab who wish to continue a rehabilitation maintenance program. A physician's consent is required.

Arthritis Aquatics: A program inspired by the Arthritis Foundation, this class is designed for people with arthritis and related conditions!

ESP Water Workout: ENDURANCE, STRENGTH, and POWER are the components of this class. This class provides a high-intensity workout that includes a combination of shallow and deep-water exercises to increase strength and endurance for the upper and lower body and core. A variety of equipment is used.

Senior/Silver Splash: Exercises utilize the physical properties of water to enhance agility, range of motion, and cardiovascular conditioning. No swimming ability required.

Twinges in the Hinges: This class utilizes the water to improve or maintain muscular joint mobility through movements in the water. This activity is not only a great way to improve muscle strength and, in turn, bone density, but is also a create way to socialize with other YMCA Members and neighbors!

Pool Schedules

Benefits of Starting an Active Lifestyle Today

Physical activity reduces risk of heart disease, diabetes and some cancers.
Physical activity helps reduce pain.
Exercise helps increase muscular strength, flexibility and balance.
Physically active people have fewer symptoms of depression.
Physical Activity = Longer Life!

You may be eligible for a FREE or reduced price YMCA Membership!
We contract with several organizations to bill for monthly membership dues.
Stop in with your photo ID and insurance card to learn more.

Current affiliates include:
    • Active&Fit®
    • BlueCross BlueShield of WNY
    • Independent Health
    • Encompass 65®
    • Renew Active®
    • Silver and Fit
• SilverSneakers®
• UnitedHealthcare® AARP

Winter/Spring 2024 Activities & Events

Activities and events below are all FREE with your Y membership!

BRADFORD AOA SOCIALS - FREE or $5 for craft project social
Jan. 8, Feb. 12, Mar. 11, Apr. 8, May 13 (Mondays) • 10:00am-12:00pm
Drop into the Activity Center/Community Room and socialize with your fellow Y members and Y staff while enjoying coffee or exercise your brain with a puzzle or card game! Any Y member, any age, is invited to join the fun! Feeling crafty? Check out the Bradford AOA Craft Project Socials. Pre-registration required.

OLEAN AOA DROP-IN SOCIAL FRIDAYS - FREE
Jan. 26, Feb. 23, Mar. 22, Apr. 26, May 26 • 10:15am-12:30pm

OLEAN AOA BREAKFAST SOCIAL FRIDAYS - FREE
Jan. 12, Feb. 9, Mar. 8, Apr. 12, May 10 • 9:00am-12:00pm
Come to the Activity Center for our monthly breakfast social to enjoy coffee and pastries with fellow Y members and Y staff.

WELLSVILLE AOA BREAKFAST SOCIALS - FREE
Jan. 15, Feb. 13, Mar. 13, Apr. 11, May 10 • 9:00am-11:00am