ONEIDA — The Oneida branch of the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley will host a class to help people prevent osteoporosis starting Wednesday, Feb. 1.

How can people keep their bones strong and healthy as they age? Exercise. According to the National Institute of Health, exercise not only improves bone health, but it increases muscle strength, coordination, and balance.

“Bone Builders,” a new osteoporosis prevention class at the Oneida branch of the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley, is designed to do that. Under the direction of group fitness instructor Chris Crandall, the class includes research-based exercises with proven results in increasing bone density, according to the YMCA announcement.

“This osteoporosis prevention program originated at Tufts University by Dr. Miriam Nelson around 1997,” explained Crandall. “Although Dr. Nelson is no longer affiliated with this program, it continues under Cornell University.”

“I have taught this program for over 12 years,” Crandall continued. “It not only increases bone density, but helps with balance, coordination, stress relief and weight management.”

Weight bearing and resistance exercises are best for your bone health. Crandall’s one-hour class consists of a warm-up (low-impact aerobics), balance and coordination exercises, the use of both hand and ankle weights and a yoga-based cool down and stretch.

Classes begin Wednesday, Feb. 1 from 8-9 a.m. at the Oneida Y, 207 Seneca St.

For more information about the class and other programs at the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley, call the Wellness Center at 315-363-7788.

Not a member of the YMCA? The YMCA welcomes everyone who wishes to participate, regardless of ability to pay. Financial assistance is available through the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley’s Changing Lives Financial Assistance program. The program provides assistance to youths, adults and families based on individual needs and circumstances.

In addition, the YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley participates in Nationwide Membership. Active, full-time members have access to other YMCA facilities, while traveling or on vacation, with a valid membership card and ID.