What is Fluid Recovery?
Fluid Recovery is a progressive water fitness program that has been developed for breast cancer survivors in New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, and Columbus Counties. Thanks to the generous grant funding through the Cape Fear Memorial Foundation, the program is offered for free to survivors who are finished with chemo and radiation treatments.
When can a Survivor participate?
A survivor may begin participating when he/she is comfortable with beginning a fitness program and has communicated with and received permission from his/her doctor to do so. To participate, external post-surgical drains must be out and incisions must be healed. Survivor can participate prior to or after radiation. Unfortunately, survivors will not be able to participate during the radiation phase of treatments as chemicals in the water may cause skin problems.
How does the program operate?
The program, which takes place in shallow and deep waters, is offered continuously throughout the year. This year we are introducing a pilates class at the YWCA as part of the program! Fluid Recovery focuses on the targeted areas that have been affected by breast cancer surgeries and treatments and provides gentle exercises and relaxation techniques in the water. The ultimate goal of the program is to provide a fun workout that improves strength, mobility and flexibility as well as to improve confidence and provide encouragement and invaluable support.
Classes are led by Lori Manship, a certified water fitness professional and Fluid Recovery creator. During the program each class consists of warm up exercises, range of motion exercises, aerobic conditioning exercises and cool down exercises. The initial classes focus only on the participants’ own bodies and water properties for the workouts as individuals will vary in physical limitations. As participants progress physically, aquatic equipment is introduced. Gloves are utilized to increase surface area and resistance. Some participants with lymphedema may not be able to progress to the use of gloves. Other resistance equipment may be used depending on each participant's needs and progression. Numerous studies have demonstrated that aquatic exercise can improve quality of life, reduce side effects of treatment, and improve strength and endurance. According to the American Cancer Society, exercise helps to decrease the side effects of breast cancer surgery and helps patients get back to their daily activities. YWCAs throughout the country have been providing water fitness programs for over 30 years in which gentle, supportive approaches have been successful in helping breast cancer patients restore mobility, flexibility and confidence.