May is Arthritis Awareness Month, a time to recognize the impact arthritis has on millions of adults and highlight ways people can stay active, strong, and connected while managing joint pain.
At the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties, programs like Enhance®Fitness and water aerobics classes help older adults stay moving in ways that feel supportive and accessible.
Why Movement Matters for Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions among older adults. It can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion, making everyday activities more difficult over time. While it may seem counterintuitive, regular movement is one of the best ways to help manage symptoms and maintain mobility.
Exercise can help strengthen muscles around joints, improve flexibility, support balance, and reduce discomfort associated with arthritis. Staying active can also support mental health, energy levels, and overall quality of life.
Supporting Strength and Mobility Through Enhance®Fitness
Enhance®Fitness is a low-impact registration-based program designed to help older adults improve strength, balance, and flexibility. This evidence-based program supports individuals who may be at risk of falling or managing arthritis by combining group exercise with regular progress tracking to build confidence and mobility over time.
To participate, individuals should have a medical diagnosis of arthritis, have experienced a fall within the last 12 months, or be identified as at high risk of falling through a standard Falls Efficacy Questionnaire. The class welcomes all fitness levels and abilities, including seated options when needed.
Participants work through gentle cardio, strength exercises, stretching, and balance movements in a supportive group environment. Along with improving physical function, Enhance®Fitness can help alleviate symptoms of arthritis and other chronic conditions, reduce the risk of falls, support mental health, improve cognitive function, and build muscle mass, helping participants stay active and independent as they age.
For more information about Enhance®Fitness call 253-460-8935 or email reclaimyourhealth@ymcapkc.org
GET STARTED WITH ENHANCE®FITNESS
Benefits of Water Aerobics for Joint Health
Aquatic-based exercise classes can also be especially beneficial for people living with arthritis or chronic joint pain. Exercising in the water can reduce the impact on joints while still allowing participants to build strength, improve cardiovascular health, and increase flexibility.
The natural resistance of water supports movement without placing the same strain on knees, hips, and other joints that some land-based activities can create. Many older adults find water aerobics approachable because the pool environment can make movement feel easier and more comfortable.
Classes are designed to be supportive and adaptable, helping participants exercise at their own pace while staying active in a fun, encouraging setting.
Healthy Aging at the Y
Programs like Enhance®Fitness and water aerobics reflect the Y’s broader approach to healthy aging. At the Y, healthy living is about more than exercise alone. It’s about creating opportunities for people to stay connected, supported, and engaged in their communities.
Through active older adult programs across Pierce and Kitsap Counties, the Y helps older adults build healthy routines, stay active safely, and continue doing the things they love.