A free, award-winning exercise and wellness program has been supporting South Australian women recovering from breast cancer, by restoring strength, mobility, flexibility and confidence.
The 8-week program from YWCA Encore delivers low impact, prescriptive land and water-based exercises, combined with information sessions within a safe and supportive environment.
With each session running for two hours, National Program Manager, Ruth Freeland says the program is very holistic.
“In that two hours the participants will get to know each other through activities and we encourage relaxation and fun as well as exercises”, Ruth says.
Operating across various locations across the state, the course is specifically designed for women of all ages who have experienced mastectomy, lumpectomy or breast reconstruction surgery.
“We try to increase mobility after surgery, so the exercises are developed by a specialist advisory committee”, Ruth says.
The sessions are safe, fun, and therapeutic and provide the opportunity for participants to connect with others sharing a similar experience.
The two-hours starts on land with some gentle exercise, and is followed by some time in the pool for further low-impact fitness, with no swimming required.
Guest speakers also attend the sessions, presenting on topics relevant to the participants’ recovery journey.
“We hope its a first step for women to come out of their shell a little bit”, Ruth says.
“It’s a very highly-regarded program”.
Held currently at locations in Noarlunga, Brighton and on the Fleurieu Peninsula, Encore welcomes any woman who has experienced breast cancer at any stage of their life.
To find an 8-week program, and for more information, head to the YWCA Encore website.
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