Gentle Exercise Classes

Free Exercise Classes for Cancer Patients

Yoga

Yoga emphasizes the integration of the body, mind, emotions, and spirit, thus creating a balanced person physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. In a yoga session, one learns the deep association between body, mind, breath, and awareness which merge to create rhythm, harmony, and balance. No experience is necessary to participate in yoga classes at The Victory Center. The instructor will work with each individual to progress in a way that is gentle, focused, and personal. Sessions last between 60-90 minutes, with preregistration required. Dress comfortably. Yoga mats provided. Guests welcome. 

In yoga, we place the body in asanas (postures) to maintain correct balance, to stretch and tone the muscles and ligaments, to properly align the body, to create greater flexibility in the spine and joints, and finally, to work on all of the major systems of the body including: circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, elimination, muscular, skeletal, digestive, meridian, and the mind. The postures are adjustable to each individual’s ability level. The goal of the yoga asanas is not to get into full position, but to move into a comfortable and steady position right for your own body at the present time.

Healthy Steps

Healthy Steps is gentle, therapeutic exercise program that was designed for breast cancer survivors but has proven beneficial for other cancer patients and survivors (pre- or post-operative). The benefits of this program include: increased range of motion, reduction of pain, stimulation of the lymphatic (immune system), reduction and /or deterrence of lymphedema, increased energy, reduced depression, weight stabilization, and promotion of positive self-image. Fun, music, laughter, a connection to others, and effective gentle exercise are all included.

Nia Fitness

Nia is a sensory-based movement lifestyle that leads to health, wellness, and fitness. It empowers people of all shapes and sizes by connecting the body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Classes are taken barefoot to soul-stirring music. Nia draws from disciplines of the martial arts, dance arts, and healing arts. Classes last for one hour and are done in a group format. Preregistration is required to attend. Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. All moves are performed in a seated or standing position. 

Every class offers a unique combination of 52 moves that correspond with the main areas of the body: the base, the core, and the upper extremities. Stiff beginners and highly fit athletes alike can adapt Nia to meet their needs by choosing from three intensity levels. Consecutive trainings collectively explore 52 principles for personal enrichment and professional development.

Pink Ribbon Program

The Pink Ribbon Program is a Pilates-based post-operative exercise program to help breast cancer survivors regain mobility and improve quality of life. This 6-week program helps improve strength, range of motion, and sense of well-being. Participants must preregister.