New specialist cancer rehabilitation exercise classes at Hartham Leisure Centre are supporting local residents living with cancer and those in remission, helping them rebuild strength, confidence and wellbeing during and after treatment.
The weekly classes, which launched earlier this month, are delivered at Hartham Leisure Centre, operated by Everyone Active in partnership with East Herts District Council.
Taking place every Thursday from 10.30am to 11.15am, the sessions are open to adults undergoing cancer treatment or recovering afterwards and are included within the centre’s exercise referral scheme, with a concessionary cost of £3.70 for non-members.
The programme is being highlighted ahead of World Cancer Day, on 4 February, to raise awareness of the important role tailored physical activity can play in cancer recovery and rehabilitation.
Referrals to the class are made through a combination of healthcare partners, including organisations such as Macmillan, alongside self-referrals from local residents. Sessions are delivered in a small, supportive group setting by a level 4 cancer rehabilitation qualified instructor, ensuring exercises are adapted to individual abilities and are safe alongside ongoing or previous treatment.
Each class incorporates gentle cardiovascular activity, strength and resistance exercises, as well as mobility and balance work. The sessions aim to support rehabilitation before and after surgery or treatment, help manage cancer-related fatigue and improve overall physical and mental wellbeing.
Small group sizes also help to support infection control and create a safe space where participants can speak openly with others who are facing similar challenges, helping to reduce social isolation.
Sian Sellen, Contract Activity and Wellbeing Manager at Hartham Leisure Centre, delivers the sessions. She said: “These classes are designed to support people at what can be a very challenging time, offering safe, specialist-led exercise in a welcoming and understanding environment. Physical activity can play a key role in recovery, but it’s vital that it’s delivered in a way that’s tailored to each individual’s treatment and needs.
“World Cancer Day provides an important opportunity to raise awareness of the support available locally and encourage anyone affected by cancer to take that first step towards rebuilding confidence and strength.”
The centre is looking to raise awareness of the classes and ensure more local people can benefit. For more information, residents are encouraged to contact the centre directly.