Osteo + Arthritis
MOVEMENT, STRENGTH, AND SUPPORT.
Osteo + Arthritis Support
Staying active can make a meaningful difference in how you feel and move every day. At the Ridgewood YMCA, our specialized programs provide a safe, supportive environment for adults living with arthritis, osteoporosis, or osteopenia. Build strength, improve mobility, stay active, and connect with a community that’s here to support you every step of the way.
Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program
The Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program (AFAP) is an 8-week exercise program that helps improve the physical health of adults with arthritis. Led by an AFAP-certified instructor, participants of all swimming abilities can engage in water-based exercises designed to improve range of motion, muscle strength, and daily function as the buoyancy effect of the water helps to reduce fatigue, pain, and stiffness.
Free program. Open to Ridgewood YMCA members only.
Program typically runs year-round.
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/1/25 | 12/31/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 0.00 | - |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
08/31/26 - 11/01/26
FALL 1 - Mo,We - 10:30 am - 1 hr
|
Register | |
|
11/02/26 - 01/03/27
FALL 2 - Mo,We - 10:30 am - 1 hr
|
Registration will open on 10/05/2026 |
Enhance Chair Fitness
A moderate-impact class with high-impact results.
EnhanceFitness is an evidence-based group exercise program for older adults that uses simple, easy-to-learn movements that motivate individuals—particularly those with arthritis—to stay active throughout their lives.
NEW! Enhance Chair Fitness is similar, but with the added support of a chair for those who need a gentler routine.
Participants report noticing
- More energy
- Better balance
- Increases in upper and lower body strength
- More flexibility and range of motion
- Better sleep
- More feelings of happiness
- Sense of independence
In addition to the physical benefits, research has shown that among older adults who participate in EnhanceFitness, health costs were lowered each year by close to $1,000.
Each class session includes cardiovascular, strength training, balance and flexibility exercises, and the fostering of strong social relationships between participants. EnhanceFitness is geared toward older adults. Those with a chronic condition, such as arthritis, need not worry; they will never have to do anything that hurts. Participants can use chairs for support, if necessary, and increase the weight they use for strength training at their own pace.
Free program. Open to Ridgewood YMCA members only.
Enhance Chair Fitness runs Winter, Spring 1, Fall 2 sessions.
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11/30/-1 | 12/20/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 0.00 | - |
Available Sessions
EnhanceFitness
A moderate-impact class with high-impact results.
EnhanceFitness is an evidence-based group exercise program for older adults that uses simple, easy-to-learn movements that motivate individuals—particularly those with arthritis—to stay active throughout their lives.
Participants report noticing
- More energy
- Better balance
- Increases in upper and lower body strength
- More flexibility and range of motion
- Better sleep
- More feelings of happiness
- Sense of independence
In addition to the physical benefits, research has shown that among older adults who participate in EnhanceFitness, health costs were lowered each year by close to $1,000.
Each class session includes cardiovascular, strength training, balance and flexibility exercises, and the fostering of strong social relationships between participants. EnhanceFitness is geared toward older adults. Those with a chronic condition, such as arthritis, need not worry; they will never have to do anything that hurts. Participants can use chairs for support, if necessary, and increase the weight they use for strength training at their own pace.
Free program. Open to Ridgewood YMCA members only.
EnhanceFitness typically runs year-round.
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/1/25 | 12/31/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 0.00 | - |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
08/31/26 - 11/01/26
FALL 1 - Mo - 1:15 pm - 45 mins
|
Register | |
|
11/02/26 - 01/03/27
FALL 2 - Mo - 1:15 pm - 45 mins
|
Registration will open on 10/05/2026 |
Osteoblast
Osteoblast is a targeted fitness class designed for individuals with Osteoporosis or Osteopenia. Using resistance and impact training, Osteoblast helps improve bone mineral density and reduce the risk of falls. The class emphasizes muscle strengthening, mobility, balance, and impact loading, all of which are key to building stronger bones and greater stability. Participants gain the confidence to stay active, protect their bone health, and support overall well-being.
Free program. Open to Ridgewood YMCA members only.
Program typically runs year-round.
Registration Information
| Open | Close | Register At | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8/18/25 | 12/1/26 | Online / Front Desk | $ 0.00 | - |
Available Sessions
| Date(s) | ||
|---|---|---|
|
08/31/26 - 11/01/26
FALL 1 - Tu,Th - 1:00 pm - 1 hr
|
Register | |
|
11/02/26 - 01/03/27
FALL 2 - Tu,Th - 1:00 pm - 1 hr
|
Registration will open on 10/05/2026 |
For questions and more information, please contact Megan Nayden at [email protected]
Financial Aid
We believe the opportunity to gain personal growth from our programming should be accessible to everyone regardless of financial situation or socioeconomic status. Our Membership for All program ensures that nobody is turned away because of inability to pay.
Download our application here.