A health and fitness app for women recovering from breast cancer is being launched in Bolton, inviting women to take part in a trial for a new 12-week programme.
The Her Spirit app, in conjunction with leading research and support charity, Breast Cancer Now, is designed to support women in becoming active following breast cancer treatment.
It will combine expert coaching, practical strategies, and community support to help women build confidence and improve their fitness to boost their overall wellbeing.
Women aged 45 and above in Bolton who have received a primary breast cancer diagnosis after all hospital treatment has ended, can sign up for the pilot if they currently do less than 30 minutes of physical activity per week.
The programme is also open to women over 45 who want to start or re-start their health and fitness journey.
Co-founder of Her Spirit Holly Woodford said: “Together we are breaking new ground to empower women affected by breast cancer and those at risk of breast cancer to take charge of their health through physical activity and strength training.
“This collaboration is about more than exercise; it’s about creating a supportive community that inspires confidence, builds resilience, and enables every woman to take steps toward a healthier and happier future.”
An active lifestyle has many health benefits, including maintaining a healthy weight, improving mental wellbeing, and helping reduce the risk of breast cancer.
The ‘Fitness for Health’ programme also aims to help breast cancer survivors regain strength, improve wellbeing, and stay active. Following a cancer diagnosis, being physically active has a positive impact on recovery and can be beneficial in reducing recurrence.
Associate director of public health, inclusion and awareness at Breast Cancer Now said: “Physical activity can have huge benefits for everyone, including women moving forward after a primary breast cancer diagnosis, and yet far too often they aren’t getting the support they need to start or get back into exercise.”
Michelle Graham, 51, from Bolton began hiking after her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in April 2016.
She said: “I would encourage anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer to try and engage in some form of physical exercise.
“I was thrown into early menopause and muscle fatigue, and exercise has really helped me manage these and push myself to achieve things I never thought I was capable of.”
The women taking part in the pilot will be asked to track their exercise via the free Her Spirit app for the duration of the programme and to take part in evaluation surveys, at the beginning and end of the programme, as well as six months later.
Women will have access to local group coaching and support, a weekly online strength session, a variety of virtual challenges and programmes for all levels, and a 12-month Her Spirit premium membership.
To sign up click here or email [email protected] with any questions.
Registration closes 27 January.
Anyone seeking information and support about breast cancer risk or recurrence can speak to Breast Cancer Now’s expert nurses by calling the charity’s free helpline on 0808 800 6000.
Featured image: Her Spirit
Join the discussion