The Female Focus: Cancer

FITNESS PROGRAM IMPROVES WOMEN'S STRENGTH, ENDURANCE
DURING/POST CANCER
Cooper Fitness Center launches The Female Focus: Cancer in October

DALLAS — An estimated 678,060 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in American women in 2007 (American Cancer Society, Inc. "Cancer Facts and Figures 2007"). Exercise can help reduce the fatigue, weight gain, and bone loss sometimes associated with cancer treatment and can improve range of motion, strength and endurance during and after cancer treatments. Additionally, moderate physical activity has been shown to improve survival and lessen relapse occurrence among women with breast cancer. (American College of Sports Medicine Fit Society Page "Breast Cancer and Physical Activity," Fall 2006)

To help women who are currently undergoing cancer treatment, or in the recovery phase, or anyone with a history of cancer, Cooper Fitness Center is launching new cancer-specific classes as part of its popular Female Focus program. Beginning October 9, the four-week program (meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 p.m.) features eight small group strength training classes, a functional/fitness assessment and consultation, and educational seminars on physical activity benefits and appropriate nutrition. Participants do not need to be Cooper Fitness Center members to register.

Colette Cole, Cooper Fitness Center senior personal trainer and developer of The Female Focus, saw a need for a cancer component of the program after working with several clients who have a history of the disease. "There have been significant beneficial changes in my clients who previously had cancer, as well as those presently going through treatments after beginning even a moderate physical activity program," said Cole.

Dallas resident Mary Dinkins has been training with Cole for 10 years, following her chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer. "One side effect of chemotherapy is bone loss," said Dinkins. "Following the advice of my physician, I began a fitness program focused on improving bone mass. I am happy to say that at my last bone density scan, I was almost back to the levels I had prior to cancer treatment." Dinkins credits her cardiovascular and strength-training programs for her increased stamina and endurance. She is proud that she has completed two marathons and the Breast Cancer 3-Day 60-mile walk post cancer.

The benefits of physical activity in preventing cancer have been well documented, and more physicians are prescribing fitness programs for their patients both during and after cancer treatment. "Following surgery and treatment for cancer, I tell my patients that while their body is healing, it is vitally important to eat properly and maintain a fitness program. This also helps prevent cancer from recurring," said Gail Lebovic, M.D., director of women's services for Cooper Clinic at Craig Ranch. "I am very excited about The Female Focus program since it combines nutrition education and a sound-fitness program specifically designed for women with cancer."

PROGRAM DETAILS:

• Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 p.m. at Cooper Fitness Center (12100 Preston Road, Dallas) beginning October 9 for four weeks
• Costs $580; Cooper Fitness Center membership is not required
• Includes 8 small group strength training classes, functional/fitness assessment and consultation, seminars on physical activity and nutrition for cancer, unlimited access to Cooper Fitness Center during the one-month program
• Other topics of The Female Focus program currently or will include: osteoporosis, arthritis and fibromyalgia, pre/post menopause, heart disease, and diabetes

About Cooper Fitness Center
Cooper Fitness Center, founded by Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D., M.P.H., is a medically-supervised fitness facility. It features the latest in cardiovascular and resistance training equipment, scientifically-proven exercise assessments and programs, and a highly educated and caring personal training staff. The original Cooper Fitness Center in North Dallas is joined by a 75,000-square-foot fitness center and spa at Craig Ranch in McKinney.

Learn more about The Female Focus

###