Wellness - Diabetes Prevention Program FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

I am already diabetic. Is this program for me?
The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program is a prevention program for those who are at risk for developing diabetes or have been told they are prediabetic. To find out if you or someone you know is at risk, take the ADA Risk Test online.
If you or someone you know are already living with diabetes, we can connect you with other community resources for your support. We also have a free, monthly support group for those living with diabetes that meets the fourth Thursday of the month at 6:00pm at the Yates Family YMCA.

What is the goal of the program?
There are two primary goals of the program.
- Reduce body weight by 7 percent
- Increase physical activity to 150 minutes per week

Tell me more about the program. What does it involve, and how long are the classes?
The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program is a year-long program. Each session is in a classroom setting. A trained lifestyle coach facilitates a small group of participants in learning about healthier eating, physical activity and other behavior changes over the course of 16 one-hour sessions. After the initial 16 core sessions, participants meet monthly for added support to help them maintain their progress.

Do you have to be a Y member to participate?
No. This program is for anyone in the community regardless if they are member or not. Participants in the program have the opportunity to earn up to five months of free First Coast Y membership.

Do you exercise in the program?
The one-hour meeting is not an exercise class. It is a group discussion. We discuss exercise and some groups will plan to exercise together outside of the meeting time.

What are the typical age ranges of participants?
Our Diabetes Prevention Program is for anyone 18 and older. Most classes include a wide range of ages.

How many participants are in a group?
Groups can be as small as five people and go up to 15.