Fitness & Exercise

Look forward to a wide range of benefits—including improved strength, mobility, and mental wellness—when you join Courage in Motion, a specialized cancer fitness program offered by William R. Bliss Cancer Center and Mary Greeley Medical Center.

Courage in Motion

Courage in Motion is designed for individuals who are currently receiving cancer treatment or who have completed treatment within the past year. A family member or caregiver is welcome to participate as well. Regular physical activity may help lower the risk of cancer recurrence, and your group sessions also offer friendship, encouragement, and emotional support.

Free Cancer Wellness Classes

There’s no cost to participate. Most services provided by the Cancer Resource Center in Ames are available free of charge, thanks to generous community donations through the Mary Greeley Foundation.

Benefits of Exercise During & After Cancer

Joining a cancer-specific fitness program can help you:

Improve strength, flexibility, and physical ability

Boost overall quality of life during cancer recovery

Increase daily independence

Lower the risk of falls by improving balance

Reduce the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis

- Support mental health and self-esteem
  - Minimize common cancer treatment side effects

What to Expect

When you participate in Courage in Motion, you’ll attend a six-week session held at Mary Greeley Medical Center. After this period, you’ll have opportunities to continue your wellness journey through additional fitness programs

Your 6-week Courage in Motion experience includes:

Cancer Exercise Classes

Led by a certified cancer exercise specialist from the Mary Greeley Rehab & Wellness Department, these sessions are tailored for all fitness levels and abilities.

Location: Sixty Forward Center, 205 S. Walnut Ave., Ames

- - Mondays: 2:00 – 2:45 p.m.
  - Fridays: 10:00 – 10:45 a.m.

Therapeutic Pool Classes

Enjoy the benefits of warm-water, low-impact exercise in the therapy pool designed to aid recovery.

Location: Lower level of the Medical Arts Building, 1015 Duff Ave., Ames

- - - Fridays: 2:00 – 2:45 p.m.

No previous fitness experience is required. All sessions are welcoming, safe, and adapted to meet your individual needs.

Continuing Your Fitness Journey

After your initial six weeks, you’ll receive guidance on how to maintain your weekly exercise routine with a range of fitness and wellness options tailored for cancer survivors and caregivers.