Cooperative Extension Service | StrongWomen Program

About StrongWomen

StrongWomen is a nationally recognized nutrition and moderate intensive physical activity program developed and tested by scientists and exercise physiologists at Tufts University. Staying physically active and being properly nourished is one of the most important things you can do to stay healthy for life.

Scientific research has demonstrated that exercise with weights (strength training) will increase strength, muscle mass, and bone density in middle aged and older women. Strengthening exercises also reduce the risk of numerous chronic diseases such as diabetes, hearth disease, osteoporosis and arthritis.

Bethel StrongWomen

Days: M, W, or F

Time: 5:30–7 p.m.

Location: City of Bethel Log Cabin

Contact: Norma Wyckoff, 907-543-4408

Cost/Duration: $30 per 12-week session

Fall, Winter, Spring sessions offered

These classes are led by trained volunteers. The fee helps pay for additional equipment and other class related expenses. See below for details, and visit our calendar to check dates.

For all classes

Participants should wear:

- Comfortable, loose, breathable clothing

- Close-toed shoes with rubber soles, preferably athletic shoes or sneakers

- Minimal jewelry – especially on hands and wrists

Participants Should Bring:

- A full water bottle

- Exercise mat or towel

StrongWomen Leader Training

If you are interested in being trained as a volunteer leader for this program, contact Julie Cascio by phone at 907-745-3360 for more information.

Norma Wyckoff and her husband Jim have been Bethel residents for 27 years. Norma is a member of the Bethel Lions Club and is a director on the board of the Bethel Chamber of Commerce. She is an adjunct instructor at UAF-Kuskokwim Campus and an AFLAC insurance sales associate.

Norma has been a volunteer leader for the StrongWomen Program for 8 years. She has found that the program lives up to its motto, “Lifting Women to Better Health.” The three 12-week sessions meet on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings at the Log Cabin, and provide the participants an opportunity to improve their strength, balance, and overall health.