Tottenham Hotspur is providing weekly exercise classes for recovering cancer patients at Chase Farm Hospital to help improve their health.

The classes are an extension of the Macmillan after cancer exercise (ACE) scheme, a 12-week exercise programme, delivered by the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation.

Evidence suggests that physical activity after treatment for cancer can reduce the impact of a number of side effects and in some cases help prevent the cancer reoccurring.

The weekly exercise classes at Chase Farm Hospital have been specially developed by the Health and Wellbeing team at Tottenham Hotspur and Macmillan to assist patients with their rehabilitation. 

Walter Browne, Tottenham Hotspur Foundation coach, said: “The work we do is gentle and geared towards people of all abilities, it’s very inclusive. However, you do work up a sweat and people will notice an improvement in just a few sessions. It’s really helpful for women who have had lymphedema and have pain or stiffness under their arms. These exercises can help improve their movement. We have a lot of fun in the sessions. They are sociable, relaxed and we have a good laugh!”

Lyn Louch, 69, who attends the classes, said: “I really enjoy the classes; it gets you in among other people.”

Lyn, who has been treated for non-Hodgkins lymphoma, added that after her recent surgery the classes have helped her recovery.

“After the surgery you do feel a bit stiff,” she said. “This gets your body moving again.  The exercises build up your strength and it helps you return to the day to day activities.”

Laura Hennessey, Macmillan Information Specialist at Chase Farm Hospital, said: “It’s been really successful - our class is now full and we hope to open the second class soon. We are also hoping to start a walking group for the patients led by Tottenham Hotspur. Exercise is a great way to help patients recover from cancer - it improves their physical and mental wellbeing.” 

ENDS

Image: Walter Browne giving a fitness class

Notes to editors

Media contacts: mary.mcconnell2@nhs.net or call 020 7472 6665

About the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust

The Royal Free began as a pioneering organisation and continues to play a leading role in the care of patients. Our mission is to provide world class expertise and local care. In the 21st century, the Royal Free London continues to lead improvements in healthcare.

The Royal Free London attracts patients from across the country and beyond to its specialist services in liver and kidney transplantation, haemophilia, renal care, HIV, infectious diseases, plastic surgery, immunology, Parkinson's disease, vascular surgery, cardiology, amyloidosis and scleroderma and we are a member of the academic health science partnership UCLPartners.

In July 2014 Barnet Hospital and Chase Farm Hospital became part of the Royal Free London. Read 'A bigger trust, a better future'.