Walk with Ease is a fitness program that focuses on healthy ways for one to exercise while learning about the relationship between arthritis, exercise and pain. The free program, open to the public, appears to have been well received by some of the walkers.

“It motivates me. I like the set schedule the time and the place,” said Heidi Bird, a Walk with Ease exerciser.

Moreover, according to YMCA officials, the program was funded in part by a grant which made it free for the whole community.

“We were grateful to have received a grant from YUSA which helps us offer Walk With Ease as a community resource aligned with our focus on Healthy Living,” said John Barber, Jamestown Area YMCA’s operations director. “This program is led by qualified Y Group Exercise Instructors who are providing helpful tools to stay active even if you are overcoming barriers related to arthritis.”

Jamestown Area YMCA program participants pose for a picture after completing their educationally based fitness walking exercise workout and class, Walk with Ease. This program is new to the area but will be offered nation-wide. Photos Submitted by Kacey Shelters

For more information about Walk with Ease and the next free iteration, call the Jamestown Y at 716-664-2802.