The exercise rehabilitation programme for cancer patients, ENERGISE, is run by Bristol University's Centre for Sport, Exercise and Health and is part of its Community Exercise Programme.  The class aims to help maintain or improve physical function, strength and mobility during or after cancer treatment.

Led by an experienced instructor, there is a group warm up and then a series of different exercises in circuit format.  The session finishes with a cool down, stretching and relaxation.  Activities are varied and flexible so participants can avoid particular exercise where necessary.

The class, supported by Cancer Research UK, has been launched following a successful feasibility study last year involving patients from the Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre.

Clare Stevinson, Cancer Research UK Scholar in the Department of Exercise and Health Sciences, said: "The University aims to apply research results to real situations.

"This is a good example of collaboration between academia and services offered to the local community."

Dr Lesley Walker, Director of Cancer Information at Cancer Research UK, added: "The initial findings from the recent Cancer Research UK trial held at Bristol University show that exercise therapy can improve the physical and mental well being of patients recovering from cancer.

"The more support we can offer cancer patients the better, and it is encouraging to have regular exercise classes such as these in Bristol."

The class, for over 18s, takes place every Thursday from 11.15 am to 12.15 pm at the University's Centre for Sport, Exercise and Health, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol.

The class is subsidised by the University as part of its Community Exercise Programme, although there is a small cost to participants.  The annual membership fee is £12 with a cost of £2.70 per class.

For an application form to join the Community Exercise Programme tel 0117 331 1139 or email janet.hough@bristol.ac.uk