Health Professional Information

The YWCA Encore program is the only national program that provides gentle exercise, support and information for women who have experienced breast cancer at any stage of their lives.

The gentle land based and water based exercises are designed to increase the level of flexibility and range of movement, minimize the risk of lymphoedema and improve overall fitness levels. Increasing in the level of difficulty and resistance over an 8 week time frame, participants are encouraged to continue exercising during the program with take home exercises, and the program provides a great stepping stone back into normal physical activity for those who were active prior to their diagnosis, or the first step for those who were previously inactive.

These exercises were developed in conjunction with health professionals and the program is overseen by an advisory board of health professionals.

To participate in the YWCA Encore program women need to be 8 weeks post breast surgery and receive medical approval from their Doctor - GP, Oncologist or Surgeon prior to participating.

There is no cut off point after surgery - women who are 20 years past surgery will still receive physical and psychosocial benefits form attending YWCA Encore.

Medical consent form