VA Finger Lakes Gerofit Ranked Number One in the Nation

In 2014, the Canandaigua VA Medical Center was selected to be one of the first to pilot Gerofit, and since its inception, the program has soared. 

Canandaigua’s Gerofit is a leader in innovation, receiving multiple awards, including the VA’s, 2018 Gold Shark Tank Award as a “Best Practice.” Canandaigua’s Gerofit was the initial trial site for developing the online VA Video Connect (VVC) for virtual-based exercise classes, and has laid the foundation for class format nationally.

Adding the online VVC classes has improved the health of Veterans everywhere, especially those living in rural areas. VVC provides easy access which enables Veterans to maintain exercise consistency during times of inclement weather, travel, vacations, and transportation issues.

Our Gerofit programs are led by Exercise Physiologists who specialize in addressing all abilities, and functional limitations and assist Veterans to meet their personal goals. The program incorporates a group warm-up, a group circuit, strength training, cardio training, and finishes with a group stretch.

VA Finger Lakes Gerofit program has most recently been recognized as the number one Gerofit for Veteran participation in the Nation! Some of our Gerofit members have been active participants since the program began a decade ago.

Gerofit has many benefits but the most obvious is the social and emotional impact it has on its participants. During groups, the passion and excitement by both participants and instructors are clearly seen, as well as the sense of comradery. Not only are the participants Veterans, but 4 out of the 5 Exercise Physiologist are also Veterans. 

VA Finger Lakes offers a robust in-person, and online program in Bath, Canandaigua, and Rochester. If you are a Veteran or know a Veteran who would benefit from working with one of our Exercise Physiologists, contact your local PACT provider. 

For more information go to Gerofit | VA Finger Lakes Health Care | Veterans Affairs