“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?
Find your local program here or contact Western Australia Encore Coordinator, Robin Mickle, at Robyn.Mickle@ywca.org.au for more information.
Encore also runs in 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.”
