Stretch to Recovery

Our Organization

We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to reducing the side effects of cancer treatment by offering specialized, subsidized Pilates training which enhances the physical and mental quality of survival. We are the only known 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that subsidizes Pilates training for those recovering from cancer.

Cancer survivorship is fast emerging as a public health concern and, based on recent studies, cancer survivors have expressed a great desire for some type of program in moving from "active cancer care" to cancer survivorship.

How Our Organization is Unique

Cancer survivors face many physical challenges after undergoing treatment and/or surgery. The biggest issue faced by most cancer survivors is fatigue both during and after cancer treatment. Radiation and chemotherapy can cause one to feel unable to function and perform one's daily activities. This fatigue can be overwhelming and increases with the combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Following cancer treatment, individuals may fear returning to exercise. Pilates can provide a gentle reintroduction to movement at any stage of recovery. Being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing invasive treatments can make survivors feel detached from their bodies. Pilates can help mend this mind-body separation by encouraging "mindful" movement, focusing on quality rather than quantity.

What makes Pilates different from other forms of exercise is that with other exercise methods, you may be forced to attain a certain position by any means necessary. Pilates exercises were devised to build strength and mobility on both sides of the body, making the exercises ideal for individuals who have undergone surgery with residual, one-sided weakness or stiffness.

Pilates exercise accompanying treatment for cancer is steadily gaining acceptance in the fitness community. We offer a safe and supportive program that will improve the quality of life for survivors, as the physical and psychological benefits of Pilates aid the rehabilitation and recovery of this special population.

To read more about our organization and our goals, please visit our website at www.stretchtorecovery.org