Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS ENCORE?
Encore is a gentle exercise program conducted by women for women to inspire and assist those who have had breast cancer. The program provides a supportive environment where women can participate in physical activities specifically designed for those who have undergone mastectomy, lumpectomy and / or breast reconstruction.

HOW IS ENCORE FUNDED?
Encore is supported nationally by AVON. In NSW it is funded by NSW Health and in the NT by Dragons Abreast NT.

WHO RUNS ENCORE?
ENCORE is a national program of the YWCA Australia, a community based, non profit organisation. An Advisory Group of medical experts oversee the program. In some areas, there are partnerships between the YWCA and local groups, such as Women's Health Centres, to deliver the program.

WHERE IS MY LOCAL ENCORE CLASS?
Please call the National Manager on 1800 305 150 or email encore@ywca.org.au for information about your nearest class.

DO I NEED TO ENROL?
Yes. You will be sent enrollment forms prior to attending the classes. Your local coordinator will explain them to you.

HOW MANY IN A CLASS?
Each ENCORE program consists of small groups of between 6 and 14 participants.

WHAT DO I NEED TO TAKE?
You need to wear comfortable clothing and bring your swimmers.

WHEN SHOULD I DO IT?
We recommend you are eight weeks post surgery before commencing a class. However, after that time, you may attend at any point, be it nine weeks or nine years. We encourage any woman who has been through breast cancer surgery to attend at any point in their lives.

CAN I ATTEND IF I HAVE LYMPHOEDEMA?
Yes. In fact it is encouraged. The pool exercises are believed to be beneficial to lymphoedema.

DO I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SWIM?
No. All exercises are conducted with feet on the bottom of the pool and there are two qualified instructors assisting.

HOW MUCH DOES ENCORE COST?
The YWCA is committed to ensuring that all women have equal access to the program, regardless of income. It is provided free of charge to participants.

WHAT DOES A CLASS INVOLVE?
The program runs over an eight week period. In a weekly meeting of approximately two hours you participate in floor & pool exercises, and an information and support session. The pool exercises are held in a heated hydrotherapy pool.

HOW DOES IT HELP?
The exercises target areas that have been affected by breast cancer surgery. The hydrotherapy exercises are considered particularly helpful. The classes are also an opportunity for women to share their experiences in a safe and understanding environment.