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Cancer Rehab: Recovery Through Exercise
In recent years, we have seen a rise in the prevalence of cancer, with NHS statistics revealing over 390,000 diagnosed cases in the UK in 2021, an increase of over 5,000 recorded cases in comparison to 2019 data. While part of this rise might reflect improved detection and awareness, it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by those living with and recovering from cancer.
In the YMCA Gym we currently offer a wide range of wellbeing support which include; cancer exercise rehabilitation, cardiac rehabilitation, mental health support and a whole range of specialist exercise instructors. Exercise, particularly for those recovering from cancer, has become a cornerstone of what we do, helping individuals rebuild their strength and confidence.
Meet our Deputy Gym Manager and Cancer Rehab Instructor, Sarah!
Our Deputy Gym Manager Sarah brings over 15 years of experience to YMCA Gym. Her career began in the Army, where she recognised that there was a need for more enjoyable and wellbeing-centred fitness classes.
“When starting at YMCA Gym there was a need for a cancer rehabilitation instructor within the community, which is why when Trekstock contacted YMCA Gym asking if there was anyone willing to do it, of course I jumped at the opportunity knowing there was a need and I could do alot of good work.”
“The past 12 months we have worked with current gym members, staff family members and the local community with exercise and wellbeing. I have 11 people who I currently see on a 1-1 basis and about to start two new programmes, one is for pre-cancer treatment patients and the other is for current or post treatment. Both programmes are vital to the recovery of that individual.”
Through 1-1 consultation, tailored exercise programmes and ongoing support, our cancer rehab plays a crucial role in enhancing the body’s natural immune response. Typically, small amounts of immune cells circulate throughout the body, but by increasing blood and lymph movement through physical activity, more immune cells are mobilized from the lymph nodes and spleen into the bloodstream. By doing so, exercise can aid recovery, reduce side effects, and improve quality of life.
One member of the programme has shared their experience of how the sessions have supported their recovery:
“I started coming to the YMCA gym when I was still going through targeted chemo. I had had surgery and chemo by that point.
I found coming to the gym really good for my well-being. I was really ill in chemo and couldn’t even walk at one point. I had been fit before but I had lost my confidence in my body after chemo and surgery. The sessions with Sarah were super supportive. She helped me understand how to push myself to my own limits in a way that made me feel safe.
I’ve now been going to sessions with Sarah for over a year. I finished all my active treatment 6 months ago and I’m starting to really get my fitness back and get strong again. Before I started the sessions, I felt really sad as I thought I’d never be the same again after cancer treatment. While I am still getting there, the sessions with Sarah have helped me to gain confidence and I feel like I’m really now on the right path towards getting back to where I was before treatment.
YMCA Gym is a lovely and friendly space. I really like how all kinds of people go there. It means I never worry about not fitting in. The staff and members are also really nice and welcoming. It’s become a really strong community for me as I recover from treatment.”
At YMCA Gym, we’re dedicated to improving the quality of life of those experiencing cancer, and showing that recovery is an active process with the help of specialist instructors. If you or someone you know could benefit from the programme, please visit our website to find out more, or alternatively, contact us at ymcagym@ymcanorthtyneside.org.
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