We know how difficult rehabilitation can be after breast cancer treatment, and so the charity has used some of Breast Cancer Kent’s funding to set up a specialist pilates class.

How does it work?

The Breast Cancer Kent Pilates Class meets weekly on a Thursday at the YMCA sports centre in Loose, Maidstone from 11:30pm -12.15pm.

The class is run by Vicki Cronin, who is a qualified level 4 Cancer and Exercise Rehabilitation Specialist* and has lots of experience of working with cancer patients. Exercises are floor and chair based, catering for mixed abilities. So, whatever your level of mobility, Vicki can help.

What do I need to bring?

The charity provides all the equipment attendees will need for the class. That is, a mat, ball, band and block. (If these sound scary, don’t worry – they are not!) You may also like to bring a bottle of water as hydration during exercise is very important.

What should I wear?

We recommend you wear comfortable, loose clothing. A tracksuit, or leisure trousers and a tee shirt for example. Comfortable footwear such as trainers, or non slip yoga socks would be advisable.

What about the social side?

We believe that the social side of rehabitation after treatment is as important as the physical side. Many of the class attendees stay for a coffee and a chat afterwards in the YMCA café. You might find this helpful.

How do I join in?

To join in with the group, please contact Vicki Cronin directly on 07759 833097 to book a place. Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, please contact Vicki before attempting to attend the class. The pilates class is funded free of charge to attendees, however if you would like to make a small donation this option is always welcome for the continued running of the group. We look forward to welcoming you very soon! Our intrepid ladies did not let coronavirus stop their pilates classes! Vicki and her group were able to continue their exercises through online zoom classes. Please continue to contact Vicki directly on the number above if you are interested in joining this class.

In the UK, approximately 1 in 8/9 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Breast cancer is more common in older women and a significant family history is the strongest individual risk factor for the development of breast cancer.

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new breast lump. Other symptoms include breast distortion and spontaneous bloody nipple discharge but breast pain is an unusual symptom of breast cancer. Signs of cancerous cells may also be seen on screening mammograms.

Breast cancer can be either diagnosed at a pre-invasive stage called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or as a malignant tumour. The most common types of breast cancer in the UK are invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive lobular carcinoma. The majority of ductal and lobular cancer cells are dependant upon the female hormone oestrogen, which encourages them to grow and divide. A small proportion of breast cancers over express the receptor Her-2 which when activated also sends a strong growth signal to the cancer cell.

At the time of diagnosis, many breast cancers are confined to the breast itself. However, breast cancer can spread and tumour cells may move into lymph nodes in the armpit (axilla). It is important to know if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes because the information will help to plan the most appropriate treatment. In most patients with a new diagnosis of breast cancer, it is unusual to find that the cancerous cells have spread to other parts of the body such as the lungs, liver and bones.