“It’s not just about the exercise. It’s given me peace of mind, knowing that I’m not the only one going through this. I now see myself having a physically and psychologically healthy and bright future.”
These are words from a past participant of YWCA Australia’s Encore Program in Western Australia.
Encore is a free exercise program designed specifically for women who have experienced mastectomy, lumpectomy or breast reconstruction surgery. The program runs for two hours a week over eight weeks.
After surgery, many women experience numbness, pins and needles, loss of mobility, and discomfort in their upper bodies – Encore can help relieve these problems through specially tailored post breast cancer surgery exercises.
“I have learnt things about breast cancer which I didn’t know before and learnt about resources I can access. Everyone has been so nice and friendly, and it’s been a wonderful thing to be a part of – big thanks!”
Based around land and hydrotherapy pool exercises, it is safe, fun and therapeutic. Encore can help you strengthen and tone your arms, shoulders and chest, regain mobility, and improve your general fitness. Encore is a proven program with, on average:
- 80% of participants demonstrating increased strength
- 95% of participants demonstrating increased aerobic endurance
- 70% of participants demonstrating improvements in flexibility
Guest speakers around health and wellbeing are part of this relaxed, positive and fun program which also focuses on peer support.
Are you, or someone you know, interested in joining Encore?
Dates and locations for next term are as follows:
Albany
Location: Albany Health Campus, 30 Warden Ave, Spencer Park
Dates: Wednesday 16 October – 4 December 2019, 4pm – 6pm
Bunbury
Location: College Row School, 2-4 College Row, Bunbury
Dates: Tuesday 15 October – 3 December, 4.30pm – 6.30pm
Geraldton
Location: Holland Street School, 12 Holland Street, Geraldton
Dates: Thursday 17 October – 5 December 2019, 4.30pm – 6.30pm
Mandurah
Location: Mandurah Aquatic & Recreational Centre, 303 Pinjarra Road, Mandurah
Dates: Tuesday 15 October – 3d December 2019, 10.30am – 12.30pm
Wanneroo
Location: Wanneroo Aquamotion, Civic Drive Wanneroo
Dates: Thursday 17 October – 5 December 2019, 6pm – 8pm
Places are limited, so get in quickly! Email Robyn.Mickle@ywca.org.au for more information and to register.
Encore also runs in South Australia and New South Wales.
“A fantastic program to be given the opportunity to attend. I have learnt lots from the weekly speakers. Our facilitators were marvellous, enthusiastic, and motivating.”
