StrongBodies

Community-based physical activity program designed to help individuals of all ages build strength, flexibility, and balance. Helping people of all ages to live stronger, healthier lives by providing knowledge, inspiration, access to programs, and ongoing support.

Participate in StrongBodies

Information for Leaders

For GenteFuerte Leaders

100%

WI counties served by StrongBodies in person or virtual classes

8,000+

WI StrongBodies participants annually

91%

reported improvements in physical strength

71%

reported improved social connectedness

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Overview

The Wisconsin StrongBodies Program, based on the National StrongPeople Program, is dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages to live stronger, healthier lives. By providing access to community-based strength training programs, knowledge, skills, and ongoing support, StrongBodies helps participants improve their physical fitness, build strength, gain confidence, and increase social connection, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.

The program is designed for adults as they age, focusing on strength training and health education. Participants attend sessions twice a week, led by trained instructors in a supportive environment, where they engage in exercises that target all major muscle groups. StrongBodies follows a structured approach that helps participants gradually increase the weights they use, leading to improved strength, better mobility, and a reduced risk of chronic conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes.

UW Extension, Health and Wellbeing StrongBodies Ambassadors envision a community where individuals are not only fit and healthy, but also act as agents of change for their families and communities. Wisconsin StrongBodies Ambassadors emphasize the importance of training community leaders to deliver the StrongBodies program locally. Through comprehensive workshops, local leaders are equipped with the skills and resources needed to lead StrongBodies classes in their communities, fostering a network of health leaders committed to promoting physical activity and well-being. By expanding the program’s reach, StrongBodies aims to create a ripple effect of positive change, leading to healthier, more connected communities across Wisconsin.

StrongBodies Overview: Building Strength for a Healthier Life

Strength Training for Life: The StrongBodies Program on PBS

Looking for other languages? Watch the program in Spanish or Hmong

Whom We Serve

Adults looking to improve physical health (strength and balance) & mental health, as well as social connectedness

Local Community leaders seeking opportunities for civic engagement and leadership of community-based StrongBodies program

Ways We Help

Provide structured exercise classes focused on strength training with health education to support healthy living

Foster a supportive community to enhance social connectedness

Empower participants to regain strength and confidence

Train and support communities, organizations, and partners

How It Works

Join a Class

Participate in 10-12 week series, meeting twice a week for one-hour sessions.

Exercise Routine

Engage in strength training exercises using hand and ankle weights, along with balance and stretching activities.

Receive Support

Benefit from the guidance of trained instructors and a supportive community.

This program is appropriate for adults of all ages and abilities

Success & Impact

StrongBodies/GenteFuerte potencia a los líderes de la salud de la comunidad

Las clases de ejercicio StrongBodies en el Sixteenth Street Community Health Center en Milwaukee se dictan totalmente en español.

StrongBodies Empowers Community Health Leaders

StrongBodies classes at the Sixteenth Street Community Health Center in Milwaukee are offered completely in Spanish.

StrongBodies in Manitowoc Centers Hmong Elders to Strengthen Selves & Community

In Manitowoc County, bilingual StrongBodies classes support Hmong and Southeast Asian elders as they stay active, build and maintain social connections.

Deb Mulrain

Monroe County

I am a Strong Woman. If you would have told me I could say that 6 months ago, I would have told you it was not possible. When I learned about the StrongWomen program through UW-Extension, I was skeptical but hopeful.

Strong Bodies Participant

I’ve been able to walk more than I ever have in years from this class. I can go all the way from my kitchen table to my bathroom without my walker. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but that is a really big deal for me.