Exercise and cancer – The road to recovery is an active one
Research shows that exercise and regular physical activity can improve the health outcomes for patients undergoing treatment for cancer. Doctors are encouraging patients who are undergoing or recovering from treatment to be as active as possible. According to the Canadian Cancer Society the benefits reported include reduced effects of stress and anxiety, a boost in morale and improved self-esteem, better sleep, improved appetite and an increase in energy levels.
UW WELL-FIT: Local rehabilitative program for individuals undergoing treatment
Putting this research into action is a program provided by the University of Waterloo – UW WELL-FIT. This is an innovative 12-week, rehabilitative group exercise program for individuals undergoing or who have completed chemotherapy, radiation, or hormonal therapy treatment for various cancers. Funded by UW Fitness, Grand River Regional Cancer Centre, and charitable donations, UW WELL-FIT was designed together with oncologists at the Grand River Regional Cancer Centre. This program has been helping individuals in the Kitchener-Waterloo and surrounding area since 2002.
UW WELL-FIT is helping individuals gain back strength, mobility, and endurance as they work through their treatments and recovery. The program also helps to reduce the side effects of treatment as well – nausea, fatigue, depression and weight loss and gain. An important bonus is that individuals develop a strong network of support with others they meet in the program who are going through similar treatments and managing similar impacts of these treatments together.
UW WELL-FIT is designed to meet the specific needs of each participant – regardless of fitness level. The program is provided in a safe environment, in private or small groups with 1-hour exercise sessions taking place 2 times per week. There is no fee for this program.
Who is eligible?
If you are currently undergoing chemotherapy, radiation or just starting hormonal therapy treatment (or if you recently had surgery as your only form of treatment) and you live in the K-W or surrounding areas, you are eligible to be part of this program. Your oncologist must provide a referral prior to the start of the program.
Graduate program
At the end of the original 12 weeks, you may continue with your sessions in the familiar environment at UW WELL-FIT. This program is offered on a fee-for-service basis so you can continue the program designed specifically to meet your needs.
Bring the program to your community
Interested in bringing this innovative program to your area? With funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada through the Active Living Coalition for Older Adults (ALCOA), UW Fitness has published a manual – Active Living for Older Adults in Treatment for Cancer. Based on the UW WELL-FIT framework, this manual allows individuals or organizations from across the country to bring this program to their local community. The manual includes a DVD with participant interviews sharing important information on the success of the program.
SeeWhatSheCanDo
Interested in finding out more about a specific activity? SWSCD can help learn more about activities that will help you on the road to recovery:
Find or start your own active events or group at our SWSCD Hub and improve your strength, energy levels, and overall health.
Check out our Athlete Advisor, your online business directory for all things active in your community. Explore, rate and review clubs, local community offerings and businesses that keep you moving.
For fresh thinking, inspiring articles and advice on fun ways to keep active, visit our Discover blog. Share your story on our Discover blog or by using #seewhatshecando on social media and inspire others to get active.
Always remember that before starting an exercise program, you should consult your healthcare provider.
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