AUBURN – The Auburn-Lewiston YMCA will be launching its new and innovative program, Group Power, with four free classes open to members and nonmembers, on Wednesday, March 1.

Participants must register by Tuesday, Feb. 28, by stopping by the YMCA or calling 795-4095. The class times on March 1 are 9 to 10:30 a.m., noon to 1:30 p.m., 4 to 5:30 p.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The YMCA is the only facility in Maine and New Hampshire to be offering the nationally certified program.

Group Power is a 60-minute barbell program that strengthens major muscles in a motivating group environment with music and nationally certified instructors. With simple, athletic movements such as squats, lunges, presses and curls, Group Power is for all ages and fitness levels.

“Group Power could easily become the most popular exercise program we’ve had since step classes were first introduced,” said Tish Caldwell, YMCA wellness coordinator. “Group Power is a challenging yet achievable program that uses adjustable barbells, making it ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels.”

“Group Power is for just about anybody, aiming to remove the barriers of age, gender and fitness,” said YMCA health and fitness director Doug McFarland. “Group power delivers whether you are an inactive person interested in getting fit or an athlete looking for a training edge.”

The regular schedule will start on Thursday, March 2. The YMCA will offer eight one-hour classes each week along with more than 25 other exercise classes.

For more information on Group Power or any other YMCA programs, visit the Web at www.alymca.com, stop by 62 Turner St., or call 795-4095.