Are you over 40 years old, inactive to moderately active and want to improve your health, vitality and well-being?

Penn State Extension is beginning a new program that will achieve these goals and help you find a way to stay strong as you age.

The Lifelong Improvements through Fitness Together or LIFT program will provide both in-person and group-based strength-training program for inactive to moderately active adults and seniors. Classes will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from March 3 to April 23 at St. Peter’s Community Center, 177 Main Road, Franklin Township, Lehighton. There is a $60 fee for the eight-week course, which may be reimbursable by some insurance providers with an 80% participation rate.

“LIFT is a safe, simple, effective strength training program, said Diane Szwajkowski, instructor.

It provides physical, mental and emotional benefits, including increased muscle mass and strength; improved bone density; reduced risk for osteoporosis and related fractures; reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, depression and obesity; improved self-confidence, sleep and vitality; and improved balance.

LIFT sessions will include an active warmup, eight to 12 core strength-training exercises and a cool-down period. Participants should bring a water bottle and towel to all classes.

The program also encourages participants to increase their consumption of fruits and vegetables.

“Participation in LIFT may result in improvements in functional fitness or the ability to perform activities of daily living with ease,” Szwajkowski said. “Participants are encouraged to work together toward a common group goal while achieving their own personal goals.”

To learn more about the program, Penn State Extension will hold a free information session at 1 p.m. on Thursday at St. Peter’s Community Center.

Szwajkowski said the session will provide a brief talk about the program, benefits, cost and more.

Registration will also occur at the session, or can be made at extension.psu.edu/lift or by calling 877-345-0691 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

A free fitness assessment class will then be held at 1 p.m. on Feb. 27 at St. Peter’s Community Center prior to beginning the program.