MorphFit gentle movement programme available to Beatson patients

Beatson cancer patients can benefit from MorphFit gentle movement classes, which are currently being held virtually. 

The live online classes are chair-based seat exercises, which can be accessed from the comfort of your own home. 

They can be adapted to standing exercises over time but are also available for everyone to join in at their own pace and level. 

For any patients who have been at the Beatson since before the pandemic, these are the online version of the on-site gentle movement classes. 

Kenneth Muir, fitness director of MorphFit Gentle Movement Project, said: “It’s incredibly important. 

“We've got a five-year working relationship with the Beatson. I’ve got a cancer story background as well. 

“Although I wasn’t a patient at the Beatson, it triggered the desire to want to help any not only cancer patients but various populations that don’t have easy access to gentle movement or rehabilitation or any of these kinds of scenarios.” 

Picture from MorphFit classes when they were held in person pre-pandemic.

Beatson patients are invited to join a virtual online class every Tuesday at 12.30pm, which is a closed group for patients. 

Kenneth said: “From a mental health point of view over the last two years, it has become incredibly important.  

“We come across patients who are living on their own so we become, in some of the patients’ own words, their lifeline. 

“Even the days they maybe don’t feel entirely well or up for exercising, we’ve created a community now where people can come along and join the group just to have a bit of company.  

“They can talk to like-minded people going through similar scenarios to them. If they feel like participating, they can - if not then that’s ok too. 

“It’s important for people’s physical health, mental health and social interaction.” 

WATCH: Kenneth told us in 2022 why he supports Beatson Cancer Charity

The MorphFit Gentle Movement Project has vast experience working with special population groups. Providing online programmes for populations such as cancer patients, MS patients, the elderly, diabetic patients and carers since May 2020 and onsite services since 2007.  

All movements are adaptable so that everyone who joins the group can participate. Sessions last 45 minutes.  

Gerie, who attends the classes, said: “These classes are very important to me, they have made a huge difference to my quality of life.” 

Alison, who also attends, said: “It’s been a great help in relieving some of the aches and pains caused by treatment for breast cancer.” 

The programme offers a much needed physical and mental stimulus with a wide range of health benefits, including improving sleep, improving brain function, increasing energy levels and boosting mood and self-confidence. 

For more information on how to join the classes, contact supportservices@beatsoncancercharity.org