Charitable trust Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is offering Active Move, a 12-week programme of cancer specific physical activity sessions delivered by Susan Wilson and Gavin Keith, both health and wellbeing advisors with the trust’s health team, who have recently completed a CanRehab Specialist Instructor qualification.
The new programme will launch in December but the team are already supporting locals living with cancer and have had very positive feedback.
Mairwen Wardle attends a class at Levenmouth Swimming Pool and Sports Centre, she said: “My cancer is in my spine and has stopped me from living the lifestyle I was used to. I am at risk of spinal compression, and I had become fearful that I may cause damage with my old routines and habits. Through the instructor’s specialist knowledge, the class provides an exercise regime that I feel safe and supported in, giving guidance in certain activities to avoid that may put more strain on my back. The pills and injections are unpleasant but necessary to prolong my life, whereas exercise is one aspect I have control over and I enjoy it. It has given me the confidence to move about a little more again.
“When I go to my class, I leave my family, my home, my commitments, my treatment, my worries and everything else behind for that hour and purposely focus on what I’m doing from moment to moment. It not only helps me to maintain a level of fitness but it’s therapy for my soul too. I always leave the class feeling better for having attended.”
Irene, attends a class at Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre, she said: “Following a cancer diagnosis in February 2021, a major operation and chemotherapy, I had spent a lot of time being fairly inactive. So, it was important for me to do something to become proactive once again, for both a physical recovery and to boost my mental health.
“Although it was challenging at first, I persevered and it has quickly become a part of my routine, which has boosted my energy levels, improved my stamina and has had a beneficial impact on my mental health. Socially, it is enjoyable to be part of a group with similar recovery issues, while being able to follow an individual programme.
“The instructors give encouragement and advice regarding suitable training, which is invaluable and make time to get to know you. I cannot praise them enough – they make everyone feel valued.”
Fiona Prendergast, health and wellbeing manager, said: “The launch of Active Move is a great addition to our health programme and is a great opportunity to strengthen our partnership working with Fife Health and Social Care Partnership and Maggie’s Fife as well as offer support to local people living with a cancer diagnosis.
“Research shows that physical activity can deliver many benefits, and this is true of people living with a range of long-term health conditions and Susan and Gavin are helping us deliver on our commitment to making a difference thanks to their qualification in cancer rehab.”
Click here to find out more about the our health programmes and Active Move.
