Moving is Medicine
Exercise is powerful. Discover programs designed to help you move safely, heal fully, and live better.
Movement as a Path to Better Health
Studies show that sedentary behavior increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer. According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), as little as 30 minutes of physical activity a day can significantly reduce these risks and improve quality of life.
The YMCA’s Moving is Medicine program helps participants safely incorporate exercise into their daily lives under the guidance of trained specialists. Whether you’re managing a medical condition or simply starting your wellness journey, we’ll help you move with confidence.
Fitness After Rehab
Designed to bridge the gap between physical therapy and independent exercise, this program supports recovery from surgery, injury, or medical conditions.
Requirements: Referral from a Physical Therapist
Who It Benefits: Anyone completing physical therapy within the past 30 days
About the Program: 8 sessions (30 minutes each) with an Exercise Specialist focused on your unique rehabilitation needs
Locations: Offered at all 3 branches
Learn Your Moves
A 12-week introductory program that helps you begin your fitness journey in a safe, structured, and supportive setting. Participants learn proper movement, build endurance, and gain the tools to continue exercising beyond the program.
Requirements: Referral from a Healthcare Provider and new YMCA membership
Who It Benefits: Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or osteoporosis
About the Program: Small-group sessions 2–3 times per week, led by an Exercise Specialist
Locations: Tidelands Health Pawleys Family YMCA
Fees: $300 — includes YMCA membership for the duration of the program
Maintain Your Moves
Keep the Momentum Going
This ongoing program helps graduates of Learn Your Moves — or those referred by a healthcare provider — continue their progress with guided exercise and accountability.
Requirements: Referral from a Healthcare Provider or completion of Learn Your Moves
Who It Benefits: Participants managing chronic conditions who want to maintain fitness and health
About the Program: Small-group sessions 2–3 times per week with an Exercise Specialist
Locations: Tidelands Health Pawleys Family YMCA
Fees: $100 per month
Power Thru Parkinson’s
Boxing, Balance, and Strength for Neurological Health
This innovative boxing-inspired program is designed for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, dementia, or other movement disorders. Each class focuses on improving strength, coordination, stamina, memory, and balance.
Requirements: Active YMCA of Coastal Carolina membership
Who It Benefits: Individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease or similar movement challenges
About the Program: Small-group class using boxing and cycling techniques proven to improve mobility and slow disease progression
Locations: Tidelands Health Pawleys Family YMCA and Claire Chapin Epps Family YMCA
Fees: Free with active YMCA membership
Stabilizing Strokes
Regain Movement and Confidence After Stroke
This 12-week supervised program helps participants regain strength, coordination, and balance after experiencing a stroke.
Requirements: Referral from a Healthcare Provider
Who It Benefits: Individuals rebuilding strength and independence after a stroke
About the Program: Supervised small-group training 2–3 times per week with an Exercise Specialist
Locations: Tidelands Health Pawleys Family YMCA
Fees: $300 (includes temporary YMCA membership) or $100/month for active members
