Physical activity and social support can play an important role in the recovery of those battling with cancer. Through a new pilot program, the Brock Functional Inclusive Training (Bfit) Centre is offering twice-weekly exercise classes for current or former cancer patients and their caregivers.

The 12-week program, supported by a $30,000 donation from the Rankin Cancer Run, will offer safe exercises and modifications for participants depending on their specific health requirements, says Bfit Manager Ally Fast (BKin ’12).

“Participants will hopefully feel more comfortable exercising in a space with others who can relate to their experience and have gone through something similar,” she says.

Instructing the classes are students in Brock’s Master of Professional Kinesiology program who have expertise in prescribing and teaching exercise for those living with cancer.

“The instructors are passionate about using exercise and physical activity to help those living with cancer improve their physical and mental health,” says Fast. “They’re eager to learn directly from those with lived experience of cancer while developing knowledge and skills that they’ll need moving forward in their careers.”

Classes will run at the Centre, which is located within the Walker Sports and Abilities Centre at Canada Games Park, on Wednesday and Friday mornings from 11 a.m. to noon starting Wednesday, Jan. 31. While there is no cost to join, the program is capped at 15 participants.

Those interested in registering for the classes are asked to e-mail Fast at afast@brocku.ca