About Encore

Encore is a gentle exercise programme conducted by women, for women, to inspire and assist those who have had breast cancer.  The programme provides a supportive environment where women can share their emotional experiences and participate in physical activities specifically designed for women who have undergone mastectomy, lumpectomy and/or breast reconstruction.

Encore helps to alleviate post-surgery pain and discomfort and many participants notice an increase of movement and flexibility, improved fitness, strengthening and toning and noticeable emotional and physiological benefits.

Encore programmes run over eight weeks and women attend for two hours each week.  Each course is attended by up to 14 women (who have the approval of their GP or specialist) and participation is free to all participants, however enrolment is essential.

Key components of each session are guest speaker presentations in a wide range of topics such as relaxation and nutrition (often facilitated by guest speakers) and gentle floor-based exercises and exercises in a warm hydrotherapy pool.  Participants are also provided with a ‘homework' sheet of exercises that they can continue with at home on an ongoing basis.  The exercises are specifically designed for women who have had breast cancer surgery and help them regain their mobility, flexibility and self-confidence.   The classes are also an opportunity for women to share their experiences with the other women in a safe and understanding environment.  Encore is founded on the belief that a supportive environment is an important part of the recovery process.

The eight-week course sessions are led by trained coordinators who have completed the Encore training programme.  These coordinators are also supported by another trained coordinator or assistant.

Encore is endorsed by medical bodies including The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation and St Marks Woman's Health, and the programme continues to receive positive feedback from participants, including the following testimonials:

"I enjoyed everything about the programme but in particular the generosity of spirit in which it is offered - from the moment of the warm-up we are told 'this is your time - this is for you'."

"For me, what has exceeded expectations [about the programme] is...more strength, more flexibility, less stress, more confidence - and aiding my acceptance of my new body by having my first swim since my second mastectomy. I have benefited from this programme and recommend it to all breast cancer survivors."

"I thoroughly enjoyed the programme; it was presented in a caring and professional way. The benefits have been both physical and emotional. As my physical state improved, so too did my confidence in my ability to regain ‘normality' again. The programme also provided me with the opportunity to meet other women with the same issues, and I benefited from the speakers who came to share meaningful information with us. I do hope that more Encore groups can start up across New Zealand so that other breast cancer victims can benefit. Thanks for a job so well done!"

The future for Encore in New Zealand

Plans for Encore include continual expansion throughout New Zealand, including the training of more coordinators- so that more courses are available for women throughout the country.

The Encore programme schedules are regularly updated and can be found on the YWCA Auckland website.

Upcoming programmes are also scheduled to take place later this year or early next year in Whangaparaoa, East and West Auckland, Tauranga, Wanganui and Palmerston North and New Plymouth.  However dates, times and venues are yet to be confirmed.

Visit www.akywca.org.nz/encore for more details.