AUBURN – A free strength-training basics workshop will be featured as the fourth installment in the YMCA’s Wellness 101 series. The series is designed to introduce the principles of several wellness issues that face society today.

The YMCA’s goal is to help individuals in the L/A community make informed and educated decisions on healthy lifestyles. Prior classes were workshops and seminars on nutrition basics, Pilates and yoga. A new topic is covered every month.

The strength-training workshop will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 19, at two times. Participants can attend the first workshop from 10 to 11:30 a.m. or the second session from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The class is open to anyone over the age of 18.

Register at the YMCA front desk by Tuesday, Jan. 18, as class size is limited. Participants should be dressed in comfortable clothes.

The workshop will offer tips on making workouts effective and efficient while helping build confidence in a strength-training program.

Doug McFarland, YMCA health and fitness director and workshop instructor, said, “We’ll discuss why strength training is important for men and women of all ages. We’ll review the proper components of an exercise program, specific guidelines to follow to deliver results, how to start a program, ways to modify or add spice to an existing program, and review proper strength training form and technique.”

McFarland has been at the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA since 1997. He was the exercise specialist at the Greater Portland YMCA prior to coming to Auburn. He has various certifications, including YMCA personal trainer instructor, exercise instructor and healthy back instructor.

McFarland graduated from the University of Maine at Farmington with a B.S. in community health education. In 2004 he earned an M.B.A. from Southern New Hampshire University.

For more information on the workshop or to register, call the YMCA at 795-4095, stop by 62 Turner St. or visit the Web at www.alymca.com.

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