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In addition to the large gym, extensive range of fitness equipment and 25m pool the Central YMCA Club has long been at the forefront of trends that utilise exercise (facilities and expertise) as a health intervention. Our aim is to improve health by encouraging those from many areas of the local community to participate in activity. Today, the following programmes are run out of the Central YMCA Club. Y- Active - an extensive and affordable children's programme featuring after school, weekend and holiday activity schemes. The Club, through Y-Active, also works with local primary schools managing after school and breakfast clubs and providing activity programmes, facilities, staff and volunteer support. YMCA Positive Health - This national referral programme for individuals who are HIV Positive or who have AIDS, was established at the Central YMCA Club. Although the use of prescribed exercise is now widely accepted as a means to improve quality of life of individuals suffering from chronic conditions, the concept was ground breaking when Positive Health was established in 1996. Cardiac Rehabilitation - A phase 3 and phase 4 Cardiac Rehabilitation referral programme, supporting individuals who have recently left hospital after suffering a cardiac event. The programme is run by clinical staff and at phase 3 prescribes low intensity physical activity programmes, graduating to higher intensity in phase 4. On completion of phase 4 the YMCA Club offers progression and subsided membership to the YMCA Healthy Hearts Club. Exercise on Referral - A referral partnership with Camden Active Health Team, Camden PCT and Kings College Hospital. Healthcare professionals refer patients to this 10-week programme, which focusses on establishing and supporting behaviour change. Different Strokes - Was established at the Central YMCA Club in the 1990s and is today an independent, national charity. It was initially a support group, focussing on exercise and helping young adults recovering from a stroke. The group runs a range of weekly physical activity sessions that are proven to aid the recovery of stroke victims. Chinese Healthy Living Centre - The Club opens its doors each week and provides exercise programmes for senior citizens from the local Chinese community. Seniors Programme - This group is long established within the Club. Around 150 members enjoy subsidised access to activities specifically designed for older adults. In addition to exercise classes the Seniors Club includes falls prevention training, nutrition and weight management courses and creative arts in our art room and pottery. There are also informal opportunities to socialise, both at the Club and on organised day trips. Volunteer Programme - Volunteering has been a core element of Central YMCA's delivery ethic since our inception in 1844. Today, the Club's unrivalled programme is only made possible through a team of over 200 volunteers. We offer a structured, developmental programme, across all areas of our work and the volunteer programme gives participants access to ongoing one-to-one support, formal training, work experience and qualifications leading where appropriate to employment. Social/community Use - The Club also provides free access to facilities, as well as volunteer and staff support to the following groups: Hungerford Drugs Project, London Connection Homeless Project and the Riverside Mental Health Group.
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