Centres in Broadmeadows, Craigieburn and Sunbury will run the federal government's Lift For Life program for people with type2 diabetes or those at risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and osteoporosis.

The program starts this week and runs in three stages for eight weeks.

Participants will work in small groups and focus on strength training.

Craigieburn resident Carmel Roehrig, 64, says she got involved to become type 2 diabetes-free.

"I'm overweight, my mother had osteoporosis and she's just passed away. I don't want to end up the same way; in the end she could barely walk," she said.

"Basically, I'd like to get myself healthy. I've heard strength training is just as good as aerobics."

Ms Roehrig takes medication for her diabetes. She says she wants to increase her stamina for walking.

"Years ago I was very fit and could walk all day. Now I don't have the strength to walk as far. I want to be fitter and do things with ease rather than struggle."

Craigieburn Leisure Centre manager Cameron Owen says each centre can take 12 people for the program. He's hoping to see results within weeks.

"People who are sedentary, who haven't been doing physical activity, will notice a substantial difference in health within a couple of weeks."

Mr Owen says the program is strength- based and will be co-ordinated by a qualified trainer.

"There will be progressive resistance training, relevant to their individual circumstance, with regular reassessment every four weeks."