BONE BUILDERS

Osteoporosis Prevention Exercise Program

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is a disease in which bones become weak and fragile. Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for more than 44 million Americans, 80% of whom are women. A "silent disease", because bone loss usually occurs without symptoms, people may not know they have osteoporosis until their bones become so fragile that a fracture occurs.

What is BONE BUILDERS?

BONE BUILDERS is an exercise program designed to help individuals maintain bone mass and build on existing bone mass. Trained RSVP volunteers lead weekly one-hour sessions in progressive weight-bearing exercises intended to reduce the onset or progression of osteoporosis.

Why Strength Training? - Scientific studies conducted at Tufts University in Boston show that strength training is an effective means for the prevention of osteoporosis.

Where Are BONE BUILDERS Sessions Held? - Bone Builders classes are held at various locations in Chemung County. Classes vary in size depending on the size of the facility. Please call RSVP for an Enrollment Packet.

Appleridge - Monday, Wednesday - 9:20 am

Big Flats Community Center, Tuesday, Thursday - 10:00 am

Chapel Park, Pine City - Tuesday – 4:30 pm, Thursday - 1:00 pm

Chemung Valley Senior Center, Elmira Heights - Monday – 2:30 pm

Erin Town Hall Morning - Thursday – 9:00 am

Erin Town Hall Evening - Monday, Thursday - 4:30 pm

First Presbyterian Church on W. Clinton - Tuesday, Thursday - 9:30 am

First UMC - Broad St, Hhds. - Tuesday, Thursday – 9:30 am

North County Senior Center, Broad St., Hhds. - Mon., Wed., Friday - 10:15 am

Our Saviour's Lutheran Church - Monday, Wednesday – 10:00 am

Park Terrace Apts. - Pine City - Monday, Wednesday - 9:30 am

RSVP Office, 911 Stowell St., Elmira - Monday, Wednesday – 10:00 am

Spencer-Van Etten - Van Etten Village Hall - Monday, Wednesday - 10:00 am

St. Matthew's in Horseheads - Wednesday - 4:00 pm

The Senior Center, Inc. - Thursday - 10:00 am

How Can I Join BONE BUILDERS? - Contact RSVP at 734-4161 for information and ask to have an enrollment packet sent to you.

Are There Any Special Restrictions? - In order to participate, you must enroll and you will be required to submit a physician's medical clearance allowing you to participate. All necessary forms will be provided by RSVP. Enrollment is required along with written permission from your physician.

A donation of $10.00 per year is requested to defray program costs.

For more information, call the RSVP office at 734-4161.