#United States #Karmanos Cancer #CAPABLE Program #Wayne State Uni #Commerce Township

Free Fitness Classes for Cancer Survivors in Commerce Township

The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, in collaboration with Wayne State University’s School of Medicine and RepEaters CrossFit, is excited to announce a transformative opportunity for cancer survivors. Starting July 14, 2025, these individuals can participate in a specialized 12-week exercise program designed to help them regain strength and improve their overall fitness levels.

This initiative, called the Cross-Training and Physical Activity A Better Life Experience (CAPABLE) program, aims to introduce cancer survivors to the extensive health benefits of CrossFit training. This program is completely free, making it accessible to all eligible survivors regardless of their previous fitness experience.

The Importance of Physical Activity for Cancer Survivors

Research has shown that physical activity significantly impacts both the physical and mental well-being of cancer survivors. Dr. Jennifer Beebe-Dimmer, a prominent figure at Karmanos and professor at WSU, emphasized how vital it is for these individuals to stay active after their diagnosis. After all, exercise is not only beneficial for recovery but can also enhance overall quality of life.

Dr. Beebe-Dimmer leads the Population Studies and Disparities Research (PSDR) program, where recent studies underline the need for cancer survivors to return to their normal routines as soon as is medically safe. The American Cancer Society recommends that survivors engage in 150 to 300 minutes of exercise each week, incorporating strength training to ensure long-term recovery and health. With the CAPABLE program, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet these recommendations.

Research Backing CAPABLE's Approach

A 2023 publication, "The Impact of High-Intensity Interval Training in a Diverse Group of Cancer Survivors CAPABLE, A Pilot Study", highlighted the positive outcomes observed in the first cohort of participants. This impactful research analyzed how exercise interventions could drastically improve survivors' lives, with more than 230 individuals having benefited from the program thus far.

Furthermore, related studies presented at major conferences, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology, examined the relationship between dietary habits, physical activity, and survival rates among cancer patients. The findings suggest that survivors who embrace exercise and healthier eating habits significantly increase their chances of better health outcomes and longevity.

Classes and What to Expect from CAPABLE

The CAPABLE program will help survivors learn how to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives while building strength. Participants can expect to engage in functional movements critical for everyday tasks, such as lifting, pushing, or squatting, tailored to their individual capabilities and medical guidelines.

Dr. Beebe-Dimmer explains that participants often report achievements as simple as lifting their grandchildren or carrying groceries, showcasing profound impacts on their daily routines and quality of life. Each training session consists of scalable workouts, where individuals may use weights ranging from five pounds to more challenging levels based on their personal strengths and health restrictions.

Registration and Eligibility

Adults aged 18 years and older, who are cancer survivors—regardless of their cancer type—are eligible to register for this enriching experience. Importantly, participants must not currently engage in a structured exercise program and must obtain medical clearance from their healthcare provider.

Classes will be hosted at RepEaters CrossFit located at 3202 Old Farm Lane in Commerce Township. Sessions will occur every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 11 a.m. over the course of 12 weeks. To learn more about registration, potential participants can reach out to the CAPABLE team at 313-578-4246 or visit karmanos.org/CAPABLE.

Conclusion

The Karmanos Cancer Institute continues to pave the way for innovative cancer survivor care through community-focused initiatives like CAPABLE. With nearly 75 years of experience in cancer treatment and research, Karmanos aims to enrich the lives of cancer survivors by promoting physical fitness as a cornerstone of post-recovery health. Together with Wayne State University, they strive towards achieving a world free of cancer, where survivors can not only survive but thrive.

For further information, reach out to Karmanos at 1-800-KARMANOS or check them out on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.