Y NSW has launched a free, six-week virtual wellness program for young people struggling to access recreation facilities and feeling isolated because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Uplift Online is designed to provide a safe and supported environment where participants can build self-confidence, while learning about health and fitness.
Young people aged between 16 and 25 can register for the program and join weekly live sessions, connecting with other young people, fitness instructors and Y NSW youth workers.
Head of Youth & Community Programs, Lisa Browne, said the program will appeal to young people looking to work on their physical and mental health, with the click of an internet connection.
“At the Y, we want to engage with young people in isolation to access a program, especially in regional and rural areas, where they don’t have many connections or facilities,” Browne said.
“We’ve also seen a big increase in the number of young people not wanting to leave home, because they are still worried about COVID-19.”
It is the first time the program has been offered online and follows the success of the popular face-to-face Uplift program, currently being run by Y NSW.
The focus of Uplift Online is to learn and develop positive wellbeing and self-management.
Y instructors encourage participants to take charge of their mind, body and spiritual growth.
Young people have a chance to ask questions during the online catchups about exercising, nutrition, wellbeing and mental health.
They can also reach out anytime they need to chat by email.
Participants who sign up will get a free fitness pack in the mail – including a backpack, yoga mat, resistance band, skipping rope, a water bottle, and a notebook and pen to track their progress.
Each Uplift Online program is limited to 12 participants and follows six key wellbeing themes of connection, resilience, support, values, reflection and action.
For more information or to register for Uplift Online visit: Uplift Online Registration or contact Y NSW at Youth@ymcansw.org.au
Source: Media release, Jul 5, 2022 , Y NSW