High Life Highland is running cancer rehabilitation classes in Inverness and online this September to help people stay active before during and after treatment.
The sessions take place at Inverness Leisure and via live video, led by specially trained instructors who tailor exercise to each person.
Participants say the classes build confidence, ease fatigue, and restore a sense of normal life alongside medical care.
Fiona MacLeod joined after surgery and wanted to return to activity safely.
“I had been going to the gym before my diagnosis but I was worried about returning,” said Fiona MacLeod.
“Our class instructor Jennifer adapted movements to what I could do and gave me the confidence to enjoy the gym again.”
The social side matters too when routines are disrupted by treatment and time off work.
“It was lovely to meet new people at these classes,” said Fiona MacLeod.
Instructor Jennifer Ross says the aim is strength mobility and confidence for anyone with a cancer diagnosis at any stage.
“We have created a safe and supported space whether you are new to exercise or coming back after a break,” said Jennifer Ross.
“We start slow and build up to recommended activity levels over time including prehab before treatment.”
For David McLaughlan the programme has helped rebuild strength and movement after chemotherapy and steroid treatment.
“These classes have helped me to regain my physical strength and also my confidence,” said David McLaughlan.
“I have made real progress with the fantastic instructors at Inverness Leisure.”
For Helen MacHardy who returned to the Highlands last autumn the classes offered exactly the environment she was seeking.
“It is a laid back non threatening space for anyone nervous about starting something new,” said Helen MacHardy.
“We share the experience of having or having had cancer and that makes a big difference.”
The charity says the classes complement clinical care by managing side effects such as fatigue and low mood while supporting daily function and independence.
Instructors encourage people to keep going after treatment ends so gains are maintained and built upon.
“We will continue to provide a safe space so people can keep rebuilding and reconnecting with their body for as long as they wish,” said Jennifer Ross.
People can access sessions through membership or on a pay per class basis with referrals welcomed from healthcare teams as well as self sign ups.
Staying active with cancer is not about pushing limits but about moving safely with support and finding strength in a room full of people on the same path.
Details are available from the Active Health team at High Life Highland and at Inverness Leisure reception.
For more information on High Life Highland’s cancer rehab classes please visit the website: Cancer Rehab – High Life Highland or contact the Active Health team via email: active.health@highlifehighland.com
People can access these classes as part of their highlife membership or can pay per class they attend.
