Long Islanders Lose 1,000 Pounds with the YMCA

The YMCA of Long Island recently challenged members from all six branches to lose five pounds in one month with the goal of collectively losing a half ton of body weight island-wide. During the Strive for Five Challenge, the YMCA of Long Island provided participants with helpful tips, healthy recipes and encouragement. Approximately 500 members lost a total of 1,074 pounds. This program is part of the YMCA’s initiative for healthy living.

“I signed up for the YMCA’s Strive for Five Challenge because it seemed like a fun activity for the members,” said Mike Cafaro, Great South Bay YMCA member since 2007. “By the end of the month, I dropped five pounds and I’m not stopping there! The Y has been a tremendous support to me in attaining my weight loss goals and quest for healthy living.”

Throughout the challenge, the YMCA of Long Island sent out inspirational e-mail blasts to participants. The e-mails provided healthy recipes from a board certified nutritionist, including a post-workout smoothie, white bean tuna salad, vegetable stir fry, mango jicama salad and more. Other e-mails provided tips on dining out, proper protein intake, portion control and optimal water intake.

“Members have told us they like to slim down and get fit to feel and look their best for beach season,” said Anne Brigis, President and CEO of the YMCA of Long Island. “That’s why we launched a fun and inspiring campaign to help our members lose five pounds, a healthy and attainable goal. The Strive for Five Challenge has been a terrific success so far and we look forward to doing it again in the future.”

The YMCA is a leader in providing programs that strengthen the mind, body and spirit connection. Long Islanders of all ages and fitness levels learn to live their healthiest lives inside the YMCA’s state-of-the-art facilities in Brookhaven, East Hampton, Glen Cove,Bay Shore, Huntington and Patchogue. The YMCA of Long Island is a cause-driven nonprofit organization that works to strengthen communities through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For information and locations, visit www.ymcali.org, or call 855-296-2254.

Photo: A participant in the YMCA of Long Island’s “Strive for Five Challenge” steps on the scale and finds out he dropped five pounds in one month. The program was meant to inspire members to reach a healthy and attainable goal.

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