Protect Your Health

The Y’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program teaches participants how to measure and track their blood pressure, eat healthier, and avoid high blood pressure triggers.

The program responds to a critical need in the community: High blood pressure affects 75 million Americans. The condition can lead to increased risk of heart disease and stroke – two leading causes of death in the US, and it is known as a “silent killer” because there typically are no warning signs or symptoms.

About the Program

The four-month Y program is based on research that shows that the simple process of checking and recording blood pressure at least twice a month over four months may lower blood pressure. And, proper nutrition, particularly a reduction in sodium, can help lower diastolic and systolic blood pressure. The program is offered at no-cost, and while there is a fee for the blood pressure cuff, scholarships are available. 

Program participants learn how to properly self-monitor their blood pressure using a cuff. They also get:
  • Two personalized consultations per month
  • Monthly nutrition education seminars on eating healthy, shopping and cooking, stopping hypertension, and reducing sodium
  • Personalized support from trained Healthy Heart Ambassadors
  • Ongoing encouragement through weekly emails, calls, and text messages
The program is designed to help participants meet specific goals:
  • Reduced blood pressure
  • Improved blood pressure management
  • Increased awareness of triggers that spike blood pressure
  • Enhanced knowledge of healthy eating habits 

The YMCA of Metropolitan Denver joins 64 Ys across the country in presenting the program, which is a component of the Million Hearts® 2022 Campaign launched by the US Department of Health and Human Services.

Program Requirements

To qualify for the program, participants must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Be diagnosed with high blood pressure
  • Not have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias
  • Not be at risk for lymphedema
Upcoming Virtual Program dates and events:

BPSM Office Hours with trained Healthy Heart Ambassador (appointments available on the following days): 

  • Virtually – By appointment (10-15 minute consults) through Zoom platform Monday -Thursday; weekend flexibility. 
  • Downtown YMCA – Monday - Thursday during the day starting at 9 AM; Thursday evenings available (4-7 PM) 
  • University Hills-Schlessman YMCA – Thursday daytime; Friday evening   
  • Littleton YMCA – Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, Wednesday mornings 
  • Southwest YMCA – Monday daytime, Wednesday evenings 
  • Arvada-Duncan YMCA – Monday and Wednesday mornings; Tuesday and Thursday evenings 
  • Glendale YMCA – Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings 
NUTRITION: Seminars 

Virtual Nutrition Education Seminars are open to all via Zoom on the following dates: 

  • Monday, Lowering Sodium Intake – April 19, 2021 @ 5:30 PM - POSTPONED
  • Monday, Shopping, Preparing and Cooking for Better Blood Pressure Management – May 17, 2021 @ 5:30 PM  -  POSTPONED