WELL-FIT | UW Fitness | University of Waterloo

WELL-FIT Exercise WELL-FIT Group Exercise

UW WELL-FIT is a unique group exercise program for individuals undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or hormonal therapy treatment for various cancers. It is currently funded jointly by UW Fitness, Grand River Regional Cancer Center and charitable donations. UW Fitness initiated the program in partnership with oncologists at the Grand River Regional Cancer Center in January 2002. The main objectives of UW WELL-FIT exercise program are to minimize the negative side effects that individuals experience with cancer treatments, as well as improve quality of life for cancer patients.

Negative side effects of cancer treatment may include fatigue, muscle weakness, nausea, depression, lymphodema, decreased immune system function, weight gain or loss, and decreased aerobic capacity. Appropriate, indvidualized exercise programs can help reduce the severity of these symptoms, as well as help individuals with cancer maintain function in day-to-day activities. Many participants report an improvement in physical function with the exercise program, and also appreciate the positive social support network that develops through interactions with others undergoing similar cancer treatment.

UW WELL-FIT provides an oppourtunity for indiviuals with cancer to participate in supervised exercise in a safe, private, supportive small group environment. All participants require clearance from their oncologist prior to participating in UW WELL-FIT, and are closely monitored by certified exercise professionals.

UW WELL-FIT 12 Week Program

The UW WELL-FIT “12 Week” program focuses on restoring and improving the physiological well being of individuals on chemotherapy, radiation or homonal therapy treatment. The effects of cancer treatment are wide ranging and individualized. Trained exercise specialists develop individualized exercise programs aimed at improving the cardiovascular function, muscular strength and range of motion that may have been lost as a result of treatment. The specialized program provides safe, private, small group 1 hour exercise sessions twice a week over the 12 week period. Perfect for beginners or former athletes, UW WELL-FIT tailors each program to each individuals specific health needs.

UW WELL-FIT Graduate Program

The UW WELL-FIT "Grad" program is an extension of the "12 Week" UW WELL-FIT program for individuals in cancer treatment, however participants in this program may or may not be undergoing treament. The "Grad" program evolved after many of the participants had completed the original program and wanted to continue with exercise in the same type of environment that is offered by UW Fitness.

The "Grad" program is currently fee-for-service and available for those wanting to continue to exercise after completing the original 12 week program. It is our hope that funding for this program could be obtained to make the program more affordable to others coping with cancer.