Healthy Bones, also known as Tufts University “Strong Women Program,” is an exercise program specifically designed to help older adults maintain and improve bone strength and prevent fractures which could be due to underlying osteoporosis and osteopenia.

The focus is on building strength and improving flexibility and balance through progressive resistive exercise with weights and balance exercises.

The classes are typically one hour long and taught over a period of 10 weeks. Healthy Bones classes are taught by certified instructors who were trained through the Strong Women Program.

To learn more about the Healthy Bones program, attend a free informational session at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 145 E. Main St., Fredonia on Monday, Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. Registration is required. To register, contact Judith Blitz at 753-4726.

For more information, go to the Strong Women website at www.strongwomen.com-programs/program-description/.

The Healthy Bones programs are being held at the following locations and times:

Fredonia: St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 145 E. Main St.

Program begins Monday, Sept. 12. The class meets every Monday and Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m.. The class is held for 12 weeks. The suggested donation for the program is $20 for new members and $10 for returning members.

Dunkirk: United Church of Christ, 733 Central Ave.

Program begins Tuesday, Sept. 20. The class meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The class is held for 10 weeks. The suggested donation for the program is $20 for new members and $10 for returning members.

Pre-registration is required.

Those interested in registering for a Healthy Bones program or in finding out more about the program can call NY Connects at 363-4582 or 753-4582 or 661-7582.