Cancer exercise course for men kicks off

A new exercise programme thought to be a first in New Zealand is set to help Western Bay men as they fight back at cancer.
The cancer society wants to hear from men who have been diagnosed with cancer and are keen to join the free exercise programme, which kicks off this month hosted by physiotherapist Lucy Osborne .
Ms Osborne, who already volunteers with the society's Living Well Programme and has an extensive background in cancer rehabilitation, says exercise during cancer is "extremely important".
"Cancer and the treatment have so many physical effects. Periods of time in hospital, the treatment itself and fatigue lead to muscle weakness and loss of function, and if you have previously been physically active, it is hard to come to terms with the sudden and significant loss of fitness and muscle tone," she says.
"Many people struggle with day-to-day activities and find it hard to regain strength and wellness. Exercise has well-documented positive effects on muscle strength and reducing fatigue, and can also improve well-being and quality of life."
The programme, which is circuit-based and suitable for any fitness level, has been designed to allow men to push themselves when they can and ease off when they need to. The course will incorporate a relaxation session and has been designed so men can continue the exercises at home.
Cancer Society liaison nurse Colleen Kendrick was inspired to start the programme after investigating the benefits of exercise to people with cancer while studying for her Masters degree.
Ms Kendrick said the evidence she found indicated men might find action-orientated support caters for their needs more effectively.
"The evidence all points to the benefits of exercise, during and after treatment for cancer and this just might be one of the best ways to provide good support for men.
"I came across an article about a similar programme for men in Denmark that was found to be very successful and so began the idea to do something similar here."
Six men have already shown an interest in joining the group, which could take up to 10 men.
"Independently of the programme, it is intended that a formal evaluation will be carried out to explore what men liked about the programme and what they thought could be improved, to get a feel for what it is that truly caters for men's needs."
The society already offered many services for women, including the Chick Chatz women's group and a women's walking group.
The six-week programme will be held at the Cancer Society's offices, 98 Fourteenth Ave, Tauranga at 10.30am on Fridays from April 29.
Men interested in joining the programme are invited to attend an information morning this Friday at the offices. For more information phone (07) 571 2035 or email tauranga@cancersociety.org.nz