Physical Activity

Physical activity is important for cancer patients at all stages of the cancer care pathway. There is evidence to support the role of physical activity for the following stages of the cancer care pathway:

During cancer treatment – physical activity improves, or prevents the decline of physical function without increasing fatigue.
After cancer treatment – physical activity helps recover physical function.
During and after cancer treatment – physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and mortality for some cancers and can reduce the risk of developing other long term conditions.
Advanced cancer – physical activity can help maintain independence and wellbeing.

The Macmillan Centre will be able to sign post you to a range of information on physical activities. We have a number of resources to assist you to increase your levels of physical activities well and gain the benefits. The centre holds yoga sessions weekly, works closely with the Oasis Centre to hold Aqua Classes (Aqua Silver) and has information on Walking for Health sessions in the local area.

Yoga is an ancient philosophy that began more than three thousand years ago in India and has been developed over the years to promote health and wellbeing by working on the body, mind and spirit.

The Yoga classes at the Macmillan Centre are suitable for all ages and abilities. The classes will include work with breathing, meditation, relaxation, postures and gentle movement to help you learn to enjoy the present moment, gently increase physical health and vitality, help reduce stress and relax the mind and body. Classes are held at a set time weekly (term time only) in the Macmillan Centre. Please ask a member of staff for details.

Water exercises can benefit a variety of different conditions. Could Aqua Silver help you?

The use of water in the forms of spas and hot springs has been used to treat a range of conditions for centuries. These include arthritis, other musculoskeletal disorders and rehabilitation of injuries. It is also suitable for people recovering from cancer. More recently it has been discovered that specific exercises performed in water are not only enjoyable, but can help people improve their strength, flexibility and range of motion.

Doing exercise in a group is enjoyable and motivational. The gentle pace is a great way to start or resume exercising. The warm water temperature and buoyancy of the water supports your weight, allows your body to relax and improves mobility. Regular exercise improves your well-being and releases those 'feel good' hormones. Improvement in muscle strength can be achieved by pushing your arms and legs against the water.

If this interests you, come along to one of our classes at Oasis, QA Hospital. Classes are 40 minutes long and run with up to 20 people at a time. Our trainer will take you through a range of exercises to benefit you.

Sessions available are:

Monday 10:00am-10:40am and 11:00am-11:40am
Wednesday 11:00am-11:40am
Friday 10:00am-10:40am and 11:00am-11:40am

To book, please enquire at Oasis reception, telephone 02392 283 333 or email oasis@porthosp.nhs.uk

What is the Cancer Referral Scheme?Across Hampshire, Macmillan have funded a number of exercise professionals in Cancer Rehabilitation Level 4. This gives them enhanced knowledge of cancer and its treatments, so they can safely prescribe and deliver an exercise programme tailored for individuals or groups, during or after cancer treatment.

It also means you can get physically active in a safe way, supervised by an expert who understands how the cancer and its treatment may affect you.

Some of the schemes have also funded additional exercise professionals to gain the Cancer Rehabilitation Level 4 qualification.

To be referred to the Cancer Referral Scheme please ask to your doctor, clinical nurse specialist or your GP.

All schemes are run at a reduced cost for the person affected by cancer.

For price enquiries, please contact the leisure centre you wish to attend.

Fareham Leisure Centre10 week exercise and physical activity programme

Fareham Leisure Centre, Park Lane, Fareham, PO16 7JU

01329 226370

farehaminfo@everyoneactive.com

www.everyoneactive.com

Holly Hill Leisure Centre10 week exercise and physical activity programme

Barnes LaneSarisbury GreenSO31 7BJ01489 571064