AUBURN – The YMCA will offer a strength training program this summer for teenage girls. They will learn safe techniques in how to increase strength, flexibility and posture while improving body composition and reducing the chance of injury.

Participants will go through a full body workout during each session, with a proper warm-up, workout and cool-down. Pre- and post-testing will be offered, which will include body composition, range of motion, strength and posture analysis.

The program will also expose teens to the program options the YMCA offers, such as aquatics, yoga, pilates and group power in which they will learn ways to integrate the activities into an exercise program. The main goal is to have each girl leave the program stronger and with more self-confidence.

The program is for girls aged 14 to 18 looking to improve their conditioning for individual sports or team sports, as well as girls looking for overall fitness. The four-week session will be held from 8 to 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 10 through 31. Parents are invited to attend the first meeting to see the facility and learn more about the program. Cost is $170.

Melissa Bilodeau will run the program. She is a certified personal trainer as well as an athletic trainer. She is also a nationally certified Allied Health Care provider, licensed by the state.

Her expertise lies in helping individuals set, plan and achieve realistic health goals to improve all aspects of their lives. She has seven years of experience in rehabilitation, strength and conditioning and nutrition education, with a specialization in water rehab and smoking cessation.

Call the YMCA at 795-4095 to register or for more information. The Y also encourages visiting at 62 Turner St. or at www.alymca.com to learn more.