Partner Spotlight: Peak Fitness

peak fitness logo sign

The recovery journey after cancer treatment is filled with unique challenges. Physical, emotional, and mental well-being must all be nurtured—and having someone who truly understands the impact of cancer on the body can make a world of difference.

At Survivor Fitness, we are grateful to work with partners who have experience or specialized training in working with cancer survivors. One of these standout partners is Peak Fitness and Physical Therapy, an outpatient clinic built on the philosophy of individualized, one-on-one care. With highly skilled therapists and personal trainers, Peak Fitness focuses not only on achieving optimal physical outcomes but also on supporting the overall well-being of every client.

For this spotlight, we connected with Anna Brown, a Certified Personal Trainer at Peak Fitness, to hear her experiences working with Survivor Fitness participants and how this journey has inspired her.

The Power of Personal Connections: Inspired by Participants

Anna joined Peak Fitness earlier this year, diving right into her work with Survivor Fitness participants—and it didn’t take long for her to feel the impact of these experiences. She describes her work with participants as both inspiring and rewarding.

“The participants are so ready and willing to work hard, and they make incredible progress so quickly! They are some of the hardest workers I have encountered, and for this reason, I am inspired to continue working with them,” Anna shared.

One of her favorite aspects of this partnership is learning about participants beyond their cancer journeys. While cancer has shaped part of their life, Anna loves seeing firsthand that it does not define them.

She takes the time to get to know each individual—discovering their hobbies, their interests, and even their sense of humor. These personal connections make the training process not only enjoyable but meaningful.

Anna also reflects on the small victories that make each session memorable.

“Getting to know my Survivor Fitness participants and seeing the determination and resilience they hold has been phenomenal. They often step outside of their comfort zones and surpass the expectations they had for themselves, which inspires me to never set boundaries or limitations for myself.”

She recalled one particularly uplifting moment when a participant, who had never tried strength training before, progressed during a workout.

“Watching her move up in weight for the first time was so much fun to see. Her face lit up with pride when she realized that she had gotten stronger, and that moment has stuck with me since.”

These small wins—like lifting a bit more weight or realizing newfound strength—are moments that remind Anna why she loves working with Survivor Fitness participants.

Making Progress, Your Way: Practical Advice for the Recovery Journey

When asked for advice for cancer survivors embarking on their recovery journey, Anna emphasized the importance of patience and personalizing the process.

“Training is not always linear, and it is not one size fits all! It is vital to incorporate your personal preferences in training while continuing to keep an open mind to new ideas.”

She also shared practical tips that can help cancer survivors regain strength and vitality, including:

  • Incorporating gentle exercise activities: Consider activities such as hiking, resistance training, climbing, or walking to help build bone density.
  • Making sustainable dietary changes: Focus on gradually adding more nutrient-dense whole foods to your meals.
  • Establishing consistent sleep routines: Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time each day to improve rest and recovery.

As a final note of encouragement, Anna offers a powerful reminder:

“Progress takes time, but the progress is undeniable! One day you may look around and notice that you no longer feel winded after walking up the stairs, your muscles and joints no longer ache after playing with your children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews, or that you have more energy to enjoy your life with! The first step can sometimes be the most daunting, but it is absolutely worth it.”

Join the Survivor Fitness Community

At Survivor Fitness, we are incredibly grateful for Peak Fitness and the dedication they bring to helping our participants thrive. With a thoughtful, individualized approach and a deep commitment to each person’s well-being, Peak Fitness is an essential partner in helping survivors move forward—stronger than ever.

Want to partner with us and help survivors on their recovery journey? Reach out to our team – we’d love to connect!

If you’re a survivor ready to rebuild your strength and health, learn more about our programs or apply today!

Fall Superfoods for Cancer Recovery: Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables to Boost Your Health

The experience of going through cancer treatment often changes eating habits, and many survivors find themselves craving healthier options as they start the next chapter of their recovery. Thankfully, the fall season is brimming with delicious, nutrient-packed foods that can help boost recovery.  Seasonal fruits and vegetables can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your recovery and long-term health.

At Survivor Fitness, one of our goals is to help survivors connect with nutritionists and dietitians to create personalized meal plans that support their healing journey. Whether you’re just starting to explore new food options or you want to get more creative in the kitchen, we’re here to guide you. We’ve also compiled some of our favorite recipes into a Survivor Fitness cookbook—available to all of our participants.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best fall superfoods for cancer recovery and share a few simple recipes to get you started.

Fall Superfoods to Boost Your Health

Here are a few seasonal superfoods that not only offer rich flavors but also provide essential nutrients known to aid in cancer recovery and long-term health:

1. Pumpkins 

Pumpkins are much more than the symbol of fall—they’re a nutritional powerhouse packed with beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant. Studies show that beta-carotene helps combat free radicals in the body, which is critical for cancer survivors. It also supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin. The fiber in pumpkin also aids in digestion, which can be particularly helpful for those managing side effects from treatment.

2. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a fall favorite and an excellent source of sulforaphane, a compound that has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. These cruciferous vegetables also contain high levels of vitamin C, which can boost the immune system and aid in tissue repair. Brussels sprouts are versatile and can be roasted, sautéed, or added to salads for an easy, nutritious addition to your meals.

3. Sweet Potatoes 

Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins A and C, making them a perfect fall staple for cancer recovery. The nutrients in sweet potatoes support immune function, promote healthy skin, and improve digestive health. They also provide a steady release of energy, making them a great choice for maintaining stamina during recovery.

4. Apples

Apples are crisp and delicious in the fall, and they have numerous health benefits for cancer survivors. Packed with fiber and antioxidants, apples help support digestive health and reduce inflammation—two key areas of concern during recovery. The polyphenols in apples have also been linked to immune support. Whether you enjoy them raw, baked or blended into a smoothie, apples are a versatile fall fruit that can easily fit into a nutritious meal plan.

Delicious & Simple Fall Recipes for Cancer Survivors

Here are a few recipes in our Survivor Fitness Cookbook that incorporate these ingredients:

  1. Pumpkin Oatmeal Pancakes – A delicious and hearty breakfast option from Ambitious Kitchen. This recipe is vegetarian, gluten-free, and packed with fiber.
  2. Sweet Potato Kale Salad – A nutritious lunch or dinner option from Whole & Heavenly Oven. You can also add cranberries or pomegranates for an extra fall flavor boost.
  3. Chicken Sweet Potato Curry– A flavor-packed, healthy dinner option from Abbey’s Kitchen that’s perfect for meal prepping.
  4. Air Fryer Apple Crisp – A lighter take on a classic apple crisp from Nourished Routes, perfect for a fall dessert.

Nourish Your Body, Support Your Recovery

Eating a healthy, nutrition-rich diet is an important part of cancer recovery. By incorporating seasonal superfoods into your meal plan, you can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to heal and thrive.

If you’re looking for support on your recovery journey, Survivor Fitness is here to help. Our programs offer personalized fitness training, nutritional support, and mental health counseling to help you navigate the challenges of recovery and find hope and healing. You can apply to become a participant and gain access to personalized fitness, nutrition, and mental health to help you take the step from surviving to thriving.

Participant Spotlight: Michael Burke

Michael Burke, survivor fitness participant

The battle with cancer can feel incredibly lonely, even after treatment is over. For many survivors, recovery comes with new challenges that are hard to face alone. But in the midst of these struggles, there are moments of hope and opportunities for deep, meaningful friendships.

This has been the experience of Michael Burke, a participant in Survivor Fitness. Through his journey, Michael found the strength to keep going and important connections that have made a lasting impact on his life.

​​Living with the Side Effects: Michael’s Ongoing Battle

Michael’s journey with cancer began in 2018 when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. The initial surgery in 2019 was minimal and, unfortunately, ineffective. By 2021, he underwent a full radical prostatectomy. However, within 18 months, the cancer had metastasized, spreading to his lymph nodes and pelvic bones. After receiving nine weeks of radiation, Michael was placed on a double-dose hormone medication that carried the added risk of bone fractures.

While the radiation treatment lasted only nine weeks, the battle continued for Michael nearly two years later. He remains on the hormone medication, which has significantly impacted his mood, leading to increased depression and impatience. The physical toll was also severe, with excruciating pain in his hands and wrists, heightened sensitivity in his teeth, and persistent hot flashes—occurring every 15 minutes, even today.

Though these physical side effects have been challenging, Michael admits the hardest part has been finding the motivation to keep going each day. Getting out of bed, facing the physical pain, and not giving up became daily hurdles.

A Turning Point: Connecting with Survivor Fitness

Following his radiation treatments, Michael knew he needed help. Understanding that exercise could be a crucial part of both his physical and mental recovery, he began researching trainers who specialized in working with cancer patients. That’s when he stumbled upon Survivor Fitness.

“I knew if I was going to survive this, I needed help, and I knew physical exercise would help me both physically and mentally. Finding the Survivor Fitness website was invaluable.”

Michael recalls how emotional he felt when he first learned about Survivor Fitness.

“When I found the site and read the mission, it brought me to tears. I honestly couldn’t believe that Survivor Fitness existed. It was exactly what I needed.”

Shortly after, Michael was connected with Personal Best Fitness in Brentwood, TN. There, he began working with his trainer, Jordyn Faulks.

Michael started meeting with Jordyn twice a week. After his initial Survivor Fitness sessions ended, he continued working with her, finding in Jordyn not just a trainer but a true source of support and accountability.

“I was so tempted to call in sick and not show up,” Michael admits. “But I quickly realized how important it was for my mental and physical health to show up. Working out twice a week and discussing nutrition helped me have accountability and adopt more healthy habits.”

The impact of his sessions with Jordyn was immediate. Michael noticed improvements in his physical strength and in his ability to cope with the emotional challenges of his ongoing hormone treatment. Nearly two years later, he continues to train with Jordyn, and the benefits are undeniable.

“It’s the best thing I did because not only has it strengthened my bones, preventing fractures, but it’s also been my constant social time that has kept my mood and spirits up. I’m so grateful for Survivor Fitness, and especially for my friendship with Jordyn.”

Building Bonds Beyond Fitness

For Michael, the workouts have been beneficial for his mental and physical well-being. However, beyond the exercise, it has been the social connection that has made the biggest impact. As someone who worked remotely, Michael’s opportunities for social interaction were limited, especially during and after treatment. The two hours a week he spent with Jordyn became a vital part of his recovery.

“Jordyn has become a great friend, and I am convinced that between her and Olivia Fazini (another trainer at the gym), they have quite literally kept me alive.”

The bond between Michael and Jordyn extends beyond the gym. Both fans of Taylor Swift, they attended her Eras Tour concert together in May 2023, which came at a particularly low point in Michael’s struggle with depression. The concert turned out to be a transformative experience.

“It helped me so much. It was such an amazing, joyful concert with 70,000+ people all singing for over three hours. The boost has sustained me over the past year and a half, and it was a great bonding experience to share with Jordyn.”

For Michael, the friendships that have developed with Jordyn, Olivia, and others at Personal Best Fitness have been one of the greatest gifts of his cancer journey. They’ve taught him a valuable lesson about the importance of connection, particularly during difficult times.

“Many of us who are introverts tend to step away from our family and friends when we’re hurting physically and mentally, but I’m learning it’s exactly what I need. It’s so easy to get in our heads and think that we can’t go on another day, but there are so many people who want to help—they just need you to ask.”

Get Connected with the Survivor Fitness Community

Michael’s journey through cancer has been anything but easy, but through Survivor Fitness, he found newfound physical strength and deep friendships that have sustained him emotionally. His story is a testament to the power of community and the impact that meaningful connections can have on the road to recovery. 

At Survivor Fitness, Michael discovered more than just a workout plan—he found hope, accountability, and the kind of friendship that makes all the difference. If you are a cancer survivor seeking hope and support after treatment or know someone who is, we invite you to learn more about our programs and how we can help you reclaim your strength. Reach out with questions or apply today to take the first step towards a healthier and happier future.

It’s Never Too Late: Starting Your Fitness Journey After Cancer 

Cancer survivors often face a unique and overwhelming challenge after treatment. Many want to “get back to normal” or do something positive for themselves, but the physical and emotional toll of cancer can leave them feeling weak, tired, and uncertain about what to do next. It’s common for survivors to feel like it might be too late to start something new, especially if they’ve been inactive for a while. 

At Survivor Fitness, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing participants of all ages and fitness levels reclaim their strength and health, proving that it’s never too late to start. We’ve worked with individuals from 18 to 84 years old, from those who were extremely active to those who had never exercised regularly before their diagnosis. One thing they all have in common is their determination to take steps towards better health. 

If there’s one piece of advice our participants consistently share with other survivors, it’s this: “Do it! It’s never too late to take control of your health and start rebuilding your strength.”

In that spirit, we want to offer a few tips to help you begin your own fitness journey after cancer. These resources are designed with cancer survivors in mind, so you can feel empowered to take those first steps, no matter where you are in your recovery.

Tips for Starting Your Fitness Journey After Cancer

1. Reignite Your Motivation to Move After Treatment

Getting back into exercise after treatment can be tough, but it starts with reconnecting to your personal “why.” Whether it’s feeling stronger, gaining energy, or doing something just for you, finding that spark of motivation can keep you moving on even the hardest days. Remember, progress isn’t about speed; it’s about rediscovering the joy in movement.

2. Ease Into Your Fitness Routine with Gentle Workouts

Your body has been through a lot, so it’s important to start small and build up gradually. Begin with gentle exercises like walking, stretching, or yoga to reintroduce movement into your life. Even short, 10- to 15-minute sessions can make a big difference over time. Small, consistent steps make a big impact over time, so focus on moving at your own pace without overdoing it.

3. Stretch to Boost Flexibility and Aid Recovery

Stretching is an essential part of any fitness routine, especially after cancer treatment. It helps improve flexibility, reduce muscle stiffness, and increase circulation—all things that can support recovery. Regular stretching also reduces your risk of injury, which is especially important when you’re just getting back into exercise.  

Post-treatment, your body can feel stiff and tight, and regular stretching helps reduce that discomfort. Simple stretches can increase your range of motion and set the stage for a safe and effective workout.

4. Tailor Your Routine to Fit Your Body’s Age and Needs

Exercise isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially when you’re recovering from cancer. Tailor your workouts to match your current fitness level, age, and energy levels. Whether you’re focusing on light movement or more challenging routines, the goal is to find a routine that works for you—one that meets your body where it is today and challenges you in a healthy, sustainable way.

5. Adapt Your Exercises Based on Your Treatment History

Certain cancer treatments can have long-term effects on your body, making it important to modify exercises when necessary. For example, if you’ve had surgery or radiation in specific areas, certain movements may need to be adjusted to prevent discomfort or injury. Always listen to your body and consult with a fitness professional or physical therapist who has experience working with cancer survivors. They can guide you in choosing exercises that are safe and effective for your unique situation.

6. Make Fitness Fun by Exploring Creative Movement

Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be something you enjoy! Explore creative ways to move your body that make you feel good, whether it’s dancing in your living room, hiking in nature, or trying a new fitness class with friends. The more you can incorporate activities you love, the more likely you are to stick with your routine. Fitness should be something that enhances your life, not something you dread.

7.  Measure Your Progress Beyond the Scale

It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers on a scale, but when it comes to rebuilding strength after cancer, progress is about much more than weight. Focus on how your body feels, how much energy you have, and how your strength and endurance improve over time. Even if the scale doesn’t move, you’re still making significant gains in your health and fitness. Celebrate those wins, no matter how small they seem, and remember that progress is a journey, not a destination.

It’s Never Too Late: Take the First Step Today

Starting a fitness journey after cancer may feel daunting, but it’s never too late to begin. At Survivor Fitness, we’ve seen firsthand how transformative exercise can be for cancer survivors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to regain strength, improve your mental well-being, or simply take a step toward a healthier lifestyle, we’re here to help.

If you’re feeling unsure about where to start, that’s exactly why Survivor Fitness exists. Our programs are designed to meet you where you are and guide you through the process with support every step of the way. Take the first step by exploring our resources, reading participant spotlights, or applying to join one of our programs. 

We’re here to help you every step of the way—because it’s never too late to take control of your health and start moving forward.