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

9k+

WI StrongBodies participants annually

91%

reported improvements in physical strength

71%

reported improved social connectedness

Table of Contents

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Overview

The Wisconsin StrongBodies Program, based on the National StrongPeople Program, empowers individuals of all ages to live stronger, healthier lives. Through community-based strength training programs, participants improve fitness, build strength, gain confidence, and connect socially, enhancing overall well-being.

Designed for adults as they age, StrongBodies offers twice-weekly sessions led by trained instructors. Participants follow a structured plan to strengthen all major muscle groups working to gradually increase the weights used. Participants gain strength, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes.

UW Madison Extension StrongBodies Ambassadors train local leaders to deliver the program in their communities, building a statewide network of health champions. By expanding local access, StrongBodies fosters 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 and organizations

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

Building Strength, Expanding Access: Multilingual StrongBodies

Physical activity is essential for maintaining mobility, independence, and overall health, especially for older adults. However, access to structured physical activity programs can be limited by language barriers, geography, and availability of in-person classes.

Enhancing Health & Well-Being through StrongBodies

By addressing both the physical, social, and mental dimensions of health, StrongBodies is not only targeting the immediate health concerns of older adults but also working to build a resilient and connected community.

StrongBodies Participant

I used to fall several times a year, but since starting StrongBodies 9 months ago, I haven’t even been close to falling. Also, since the program focuses so much on the core, my posture has greatly improved, and I can walk much longer with no discomfort.

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