the Franklin Y

Posted on: Monday, January 15th, 2024

FEBRUARY IS HEART HEALTH MONTH

February is American Heart Health Month. It’s a great time to understand your risk for high blood pressure and heart disease and make some important life changes for a long healthy life.

According to the American Heart Association, nearly 80 million adults have high blood pressure in this country. Less than half have it under control. High blood pressure is most prevalent in racial and ethnic minority populations, and is often referred to as “The Silent Killer” because there are typically no warning signs or symptoms. High blood pressure is a key, modifiable risk factor for both heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and dementia. Many forms of heart disease, including hypertension, are highly preventable.

This month and all year round, we encourage our members and the community to learn more about 2 of our Y’s Healthy Heart Programs.

Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program (BPSMP)
Heart Strong: Post Cardiac Rehab Program

We also invite folks to stop by 1 of our branch locations this month to attend a free blood pressure screening and to learn about blood pressure management and strategies.

Free Blood Pressure Readings & Blood Pressure Self Monitoring Program Information in February

AT OUR FOXBORO Y:

Monday, 2/26: 9:15am-10:15am

AT OUR FRANKLIN Y:

Monday, 2/12: 9:30am-10:30am

AT OUR NORTH ATTLEBORO Y:

Wednesday, 2/7: 9:30am-10:30am
Wednesday, 2/21: 9:30am-10:30am
Tuesday, 2/27: 4:00pm-5:00pm

BLOOD PRESSURE SELF-MONITORING PROGRAM (BPSMP)

Learn more about the risk for heart disease by getting a blood pressure reading. Ask a medical provider if you are at risk and take action to reduce your risk. Long-term adherence to lifestyle modifications and medication treatment can be challenging, many studies have focused on the potential of self-monitoring as a tool for blood pressure management. In an effort to address these issues, the Y designed an evidence-based, self-monitoring program aimed to help participants better manage their blood pressure. This program emphasizes that self-monitoring and tracking of individuals’ blood pressure can play a significant role in reducing one’s blood pressure and improving their quality of life.

Our YMCA is a provider of the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program which supports individuals with hypertension to lower their blood pressure by following an evidence-based program that combines blood pressure self-monitoring, nutrition education and personalized support. The YMCA of the USA developed this program to help individuals better manage hypertension and improve their overall health. Less than half of all Americans living with hypertension have it under control. Research shows that the simple process of checking and recording blood pressure at least twice a month over four months may lower blood pressure in some people with hypertension. In addition, evidence shows that proper nutrition, particularly with a reduction in sodium intake, may help reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressures.

Enrollments are currently being accepted from February through May of 2024 for our Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program. People who enroll during February through May will receive:

The program valued at $150 for only $50
A blood pressure cuff/monitor (valued at $40)
Heart healthy recipes and education

How the program works:
Participants will work with trained Healthy Heart Ambassadors over an 8-week session to:

Self-measure their blood pressure
Attend 2 personalized consultations
Attend nutrition education seminars
Record blood pressure readings using a self selected tool

Program Goals:

Reduction in blood pressure
Improved blood pressure management
Increased awareness of triggers that elevate blood pressure
Enhanced knowledge to develop healthier eating habits

To learn more about our program or to register, click here. You may also call us at 508-643-5271 or email donnah@hockymca.org to ask questions and schedule a consultation.

HEART STRONG: POST CARDIAC REHAB PROGRAM

Heart Strong, our Post Cardiac Rehab Program, is a 12-week program designed to support individuals who have participated in a medically supervised cardiac rehabilitation program and want to continue to maintain optimal heart and vascular health through exercise.

This program helps individuals continue with their prescribed exercises with the care and support of YMCA trainers and instructors.

What are the benefits?

Exercise with confidence
Small group setting
Social support
Fully supervised

What is included?

Small group support
Experienced trainers and instructors
Weekly 1-hour sessions for 12 weeks
Free YMCA membership for enrolled participants and full use of all Hockomock Area YMCA branches for the program’s duration.

Cost: $100 for YMCA Members / $150 for Nonmembers

Enrolling now for upcoming classes! For more information and to register, email donnah@hockymca.org Donna Higgins, Prescription for a Healthy Lifestyle Coordinator, or call 508-643-5271.

Posted on: Friday, January 12th, 2024

Dean College Scholarship Application Online Now

The Hockomock Area YMCA is proud to partner with Dean College to offer a $39,000 scholarship to a deserving young person who has been actively involved with the Hockomock Area YMCA.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

currently enrolled as a high school senior in good standing
be a Hockomock Area YMCA member or an active volunteer
minimum high school GPA of 2.5
meet the admission requirements of Dean College for Fall 2024
be a US citizen or permanent resident

Please return completed application to YMCA Member Services in Franklin, Foxboro, or North Attleboro or email it to our Franklin Y’s Senior Executive Director Scott Martin at scottm@hockymca.org by Friday, March 1, 2024 at 5 p.m.

Download the application

The scholarship is renewable for four years as long as the student remains in good academic standing.

Finalists will be required to meet for an interview with the scholarship selection committee the week of March 18th.

Posted on: Thursday, January 11th, 2024

Join our Leaders Club today (Grades 6-12)!

All are Welcome!

Join us as we kick off the spring session! Free for Hockomock Area YMCA members and only $5 for the entire session for anyone in the community who wants to get involved. Please register so we know to expect you!

LAUNCH INTO LEADERSHIP

Leaders Club is a year-long leadership development program for middle and high school teens. This program provides teens extensive leadership training and volunteer opportunities supporting YMCA programs and community services. In addition to teaching teens leadership through service, Leaders Clubs advisors introduce teens to all the work the Y does to strengthen the community, and inspire and prepare teens to become future Y leaders. Our goal is to challenge teens to serve the community, and to help them grow in who they are and lead those around them.

Leaders are known for making ordinary days extraordinarily fun. We enjoy field trips, parties, visiting neighbor Ys, guest speakers, and lots more.

Session dues: $0 for Hockomock Area YMCA members / $5 non-members; our two sessions run: September through December and January through the start of June

CLICK TO RSVP AND JOIN US

@ YMCA Zone Teen Center in downtown North Attleboro (585 East Washington St.). Meetings are held weekly through June 3.

@ THE FOXBORO Y Meet us in the Marilyn Rodman Teen Center on the first floor. Meetings are held every other week through June 5.

Please sign up at this link or contact us today!

CONTACTS: Ashley Dumas (Franklin) ashleyd@hockymca.org | Dawn Dacosta (North Attleboro) dawnd@hockymca.org phone: 508-643-5270 | Ross Gemba (Foxboro) rossg@hockymca.org

Posted on: Thursday, January 4th, 2024

February Vacation Programs & Care

When School Is Out, the Fun Is In during February Vacation.

WHEN: FEB. 19 – 23, 2023

We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That’s why, through Y programs, children are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, socialization, better health, and achievement.

Our experienced staff takes the right steps to ensure your child’s safety and happiness during an action-packed day!

Vacation Week Details:

Program Days: Monday, February 19 through Friday, February 23.
Full Day programs: 9:00am – 4:00pm each day with options for pre-camp (7am-9am) and post-camp (4pm-6pm) at our 3 main branches.
Families can choose which day(s) they wish their child to participate.
Full day camps, please pack a full lunch with water bottle and snacks. Some camps will swim so please check the program description for more details on when to pack a bathingsuit and towel.
Check out our field trip information in our registration portal today for all the fun we have planned.
Program offerings will differ from each branch.

Note for our Voyagers Trips only (ages 11-14): Registration closes at midnight on Sun 2/11/24! Trips leave daily from the North Attleboro Y as follows… Mon (2/19) Scale new peaks with Rock Spot Climbing; Tues (2/20) Bounce into fun at Altitude Jump Park; Wed (2/21 FULL) Sled into fun at Nashoba Valley’s snow tubing paradise; Thur (2/22) Score big at Fun and Games’ new generation of arcades; Fri (2/23) Discover history through hands-on activities at Concord Museum.

See you at the Y for fun this February school vacation!

Posted on: Sunday, December 31st, 2023

New outdoor tree-climbing elements at our Franklin Y

New outdoor tree-climbing elements have been added at our Bernon Family Branch as an enhancement to our outdoor challenge course in Franklin. The new climbing elements were funded by a generous donation from longtime Y supporters Paula Rooney and Gerry Shaw, and will be used extensively in spring and summer 2024 with youth participating in the Y’s Before & After School Care and Summer Camp programs, as well as local school groups visiting the Y.

In late August, we installed Monkey Hardware systems on trees on at the Franklin Y, each providing a different climbing level of accessibility. These kits effectively turn the trees into climbing walls and are paired with the TRUBLUE iQ auto belay system. The TRUBLUE auto belays allow climbers of all ages and skill levels to climb heights safely. Rather than pulling the young climber upwards, they allow climbers to ascend the tree on their own power, while providing rest as needed during the climb with its catch and hold technology. Once the climber has reached the top of the climb they have chosen, the auto belays use magnetic braking technology to lower the climber back down slowly and safely to the ground.

“From their decades in leadership at Dean College in Franklin to their contributions as Board members of our Hockomock Area YMCA, Paula Rooney and Gerry Shaw have a long history of supporting youth and families in the Franklin community,” said Jim Downs, Hockomock Area YMCA CEO. “Our Y staff and members are so appreciative that they continue to find new ways to enhance operations at our Y and help us provide an even better experience for the youth we serve.”

The Monkey Hardware and TRUBLUE auto belays have received rave reviews from Y summer campers. “These new elements have brought the kids together in a new way that I have not seen in a long time. When a camper was climbing their whole group would be watching and cheering them on to reach the top,” said Ashley Dumas, Youth Program Director at the Bernon Family Branch. “It gave the kids something to work towards and accomplish. It was amazing watching the campers challenge themselves to make it higher than they did last time or try a harder climb.”

Our Hockomock Y is grateful for this generous donation made possible by Paula Rooney and Gerry Shaw. The Franklin Y’s camp and playing fields also feature Gramdma’s Place, an outdoor pavilion with weatherproof tables and seating, which was built with funds donated by the Rooney & Shaw family.

Registration for the 2024 Summer Camp Season begins January 12, 2024!

Register Now for Summer Camp 2024

Posted on: Friday, December 29th, 2023

Stronger Together: Team and Personal Training Programs

Stronger Together is our Y’s latest team training and personal training program

A premier personal training program that takes place at our Bernon Family Branch in Franklin. Workouts are completed in a private, dedicated space used for Stronger Together clients only on the second floor of our Franklin Y.

Start with an assessment to learn about the program: Stronger Together programs start with a free Starting Point Session. The 60-minute session allows our trainer to learn about your goals and challenges, observe your movement quality and create the perfect plan for you!

The Starting Point Session will include:

Finding out more about you: your goals, limitations, and health history.
Giving you a tour of our dedicated Stronger Together personal training area.
Assessing movement patterns with a Functional Movement Screen to help find the right exercises specifically for you.
Go through a light workout so you can experience the different tools we use during Stronger Together workouts.
Provide recommendations on a program that suits your goals, time and budget.

All of this information will be used to help create your training program and keep you injury free along the way!

BE HEALTHY. BE STRONG. BELONG.

What is Stronger Together?

Stronger Together is a premier one-on-one and group personal training system helping people look and feel their absolute best.

Team Training is a 45 minute workout perfect for those who want coaching from a personal trainer every time they come to the gym and enjoy the dynamics of group workouts. We offer 3 great options for Team Training – Foundations for beginners, Afterburn for advanced metabolic training and Industrial Strength for a true strength training option – and members can do unlimited sessions each month. $100 per month.

Personal training is perfect for clients with specific goals, injuries and those who do not prefer to work in larger groups. We can accommodate nearly all fitness levels and health issues in this setting. For those with more experience in fitness, we program more advanced exercises, which require more hands-on coaching. We begin to introduce lower repetition ranges and focus on those with strength goals. Also, we work on corrective strategies to help clients improve their movement restrictions. Team Training is included in all one-on-one personal training programs as a way to supplement the workouts. Options include up to 4, 8 and 12 sessions per month, and cost ranges from $201 to $471 per month.

Workouts are scheduled appointments to make sure you stay on track with getting started. Track your progress and communicate with your trainer with a custom mobile app. You’ll schedule your monthly personal meetings to discuss basic nutrition coaching, goal-setting and strategy. These personalized sessions are designed to keep you on track… so you can be on your way to reaching your goals.

Tailored to your goals, time and budget: our monthly programs allow you the most flexibility in scheduling workouts and finding a program that’s works for you.

Special Offer!

All of our Hockomock Y members have $50 personal Y Bucks to use towards any Stronger Together personal training program. Certain restrictions may apply.

How to Get Started:

Contact our Fitness & Personal Training Director Chris Raymond at chrisr@hockymca.org or 774-235-2732 to get started with us today. Let’s get Stronger Together!

Posted on: Thursday, December 21st, 2023

Pedaling for Parkinson’s Program

Research conducted at the Cleveland Clinic has demonstrated that riding an indoor, stationary bicycle at a rapid pace can reduce Parkinson’s Disease (PD) motor symptoms by as much as 35%. Fast pedaling is not a cure for Parkinson’s, but it can change the life of someone living with the condition. Our YMCA is excited to be a provider of Pedaling for Parkinson’s (PFP) Program and support those living with PD in our communities and beyond.

The goal of Pedaling for Parkinson’s (PFP) is to reduce PD symptoms and improve quality of life in those diagnosed by following a cycling protocol.

The PFP Program:

Participants ride a stationary/indoor cycle bike for 1 hour each class. This includes a 10 minute warm up at 60 RPM, followed by 40 minutes at 80 to 90 RPM, and a 10 minute cool down, with resistance. Class session will also include tracking heart rate, exercise frequency and cadence/intensity. The program is held 5 times a week for 60 minutes and is taught by certified Indoor Cycle Instructors. (We encourage participants to attend 3 times a week for maximum program benefit but not required.) Instructors have also completed the Pedaling for Parkinson’s training and Parkinson’s Disease Training for Fitness Professionals through the American Parkinson Disease Association.

New Program! Move Forward is a 30-minute class for individuals with Parkinson’s combining strength training, balance and stretching for. Each weekly class will include various exercises to help improve balance, mobility, strength, endurance, cognition, and flexibility.

All exercises are modified to accommodate all needs and abilities. This program is an add-on to our already successful “Pedaling for Parkinson’s” (PFP) program. PFP is an evidenced informed program to help PD patients achieve an improved sense of well-being and is offered at all Hockomock Area YMCA branches.

Our next session begins soon- Enrolling now

Move Forward* offerings denoted.

Here are our offering days, times and locations to fit your schedule:

Mondays at 10:30am* at our Foxboro Y

Mondays at 11:00am at our Foxboro Y

Tuesdays at 5:30pm* at our North Attleboro Y

Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00pm at our North Attleboro Y

Wednesdays at 10:30am* at our North Attleboro Y

Wednesdays at 11:00am at our North Attleboro Y

Thursdays at 11:00am at our Franklin Y

Thursdays at 6:00pm* at our North Attleboro Y

Through support of the Parkinson’s Foundation and the APDA MA Chapter, enrollment is at no cost to participants. We encourage you to try all 3 class times to meet and learn from our entire team of instructors.

Participants must meet the following criteria to participate in the program:

30-75 years old
Have a clinical diagnosis of Parkinsons Disease
Complete and submit a signed consent
Obtain clearance from a medical provider
Be willing to take part in monitoring and data collection
Wear wrist heart rate monitor (Provided by YMCA) to every class

Other recommendations:

While not required, padded cycle shorts and comfortable shirts are recommended
Please bring a water bottle
Clip in shoes are not required but may be helpful

To enroll or for more information, please contact Donna Higgins at donnah@hockymca.org or 508-643-5271.

Posted on: Tuesday, December 12th, 2023

Personal Training Made Easy

When you sign up for personal training, you won’t have to keep worrying about how many training sessions you have left to try and meet your fitness goals. Instead of counting down your remaining sessions, you can simply focus on your workouts and progress at your own pace knowing your time is locked in with your trainer for as long as you want.

We have 3 monthly draft options available. (Partial months would be prorated)

Four 45-minute Personal Training sessions per month for $220
Eight 45-minute Personal Training sessions per month for $440
Twelve 45-minute Personal Training sessions per month for $660

The billing cycle will occur each month, and will draft on the 1st of the month to be consistent with our already-established youth programming.

To learn more about our personal training program, to register, and to select a trainer, please fill out an online form below and a member of our Health & Wellness Team will reach out to you to help. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you meet your fitness goals.

BERNON FAMILY BRANCH YMCA
45 Forge Hill Road, Franklin, MA
Contact: Chris Raymond – Phone: 508-528-8708 / Email: chrisr@hockymca.org

** COMPLETE THIS INTAKE FORM FOR FRANKLIN PERSONAL TRAINING **

INVENSYS FOXBORO BRANCH YMCA
67 Mechanic Street, Foxboro, MA
Contact: Meredith Walsh – Phone: 508-543-2523 / Email: meredithw@hockymca.org

** COMPLETE THIS INTAKE FORM FOR FOXBORO PERSONAL TRAINING **

HURLEY FAMILY BRANCH YMCA
300 Elmwood Street, North Attleboro, MA
Contact: Bobby Pacuk – Phone: 508-695-7001 / Email: bobbyp@hockymca.org

** COMPLETE THIS INTAKE FORM FOR NORTH ATTLEBORO PERSONAL TRAINING **

Posted on: Tuesday, December 12th, 2023

North Attleboro Indoor Pool Renovation

Make A Splash with Us in our Renovated Indoor Pool!

Our brand-new Aquatics Center is now open!

It’s brighter, more welcoming and efficient, and more accessible to people of all abilities. Whether you’ll be joining us for lap swim, open family swim, water group exercise or swim lessons, we can’t wait to welcome you back in the water this holiday season. We look forward to seeing you there!

Hear from our Executive Director Mike Mahoney with an exciting announcement!

Renovations to our Indoor Pool is part of a series of renovation projects in our branches to enhance the member experience, as part of our Y’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.

What to Expect:
A newly constructed pool deck with new tile work
Brand new poured stairs to allow for easier access into and out of the pool for people of all ages and abilities
Increased natural sunlight with the addition of several large windows and enhanced lighting to brighten the Center
Newly constructed walls with fresh paint
Two new individual locker rooms in the family locker room hallway
New pipes and drainage system to maximize the efficiency of the pool
New HVAC system to ensure proper air flow and air temperature regulation in and around the pool area

Check our website for our real-time pool schedule

Pool Schedule

Swim lessons are also available!

View & Register for Swim Lessons

Posted on: Sunday, October 15th, 2023

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA

Improving Community Health

It’s easy to find your motivation for giving to the Hockomock Area YMCA. You’re not just doing something good for yourself, you’re contributing to the greater good of everyone in the Hockomock region.

Here at the Y, our certified coaches, in partnership with the LIVESTRONG Foundation, will help you if you have cancer or have experienced cancer by strengthening your body, mind and spirit. Participation in our program has been shown to improve fitness and quality of life as well as decrease cancer-related fatigue.

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a small-group exercise and peer-support program for cancer survivors to reclaim their health and feel better, as illustrated by hundreds of positive testimonials received over the past 13 years.

Survivors who have experienced cancer at any point in their lives are eligible to participate.
Classes meet twice per week for 12 weeks.
Comprehensive program includes structured exercise training and time for social support.

The program is offered at no cost thanks to our generous sponsors and includes a 3 month family membership for the duration of the session.

“The most wonderful support group you could ever ask for.” — Donna

“”I quickly learned that everyone in LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is going through the same thing. This program helps my physical and mental health.” — Rick

JOIN US AS WE RECOGNIZE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

• Cancer Awareness Month: October 1-31 Visit the front desk in Foxboro, Franklin or North Attleboro to write words of support or to remember loved ones lost as we celebrate our cancer-fighting community using a wall of ribbons.
• Night of Celebration & Impact: Thursday, October 19 (5:30-7:30 p.m.) Attend the YMCA’s annual LIVESTRONG Benefit at Lake Pearl.

When there’s the Y, there’s a way to learn about healthier living.

Inspiring Stories from Cancer Survivors

From gaining physical strength to finding encouragement along the way, community members share their journeys at the Y.

SUPPORT THE Y

Help give people a chance at a better future, inspire healthy lifestyles for everyone and build vibrant communities right where you live.

MAKE A DONATION

BERNON FAMILY BRANCH	45 Forge Hill Road Franklin, MA 02038	508.528.8708
INVENSYS FOXBORO BRANCH	67 Mechanic Street Foxboro, MA 02035	508.543.2523
HURLEY FAMILY BRANCH	300 Elmwood Street North Attleboro, MA 02760	508.695.7001
MANSFIELD ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER	40 Balcom Street Mansfield, MA 02048	508.339.3066