In June we launched a £25,000 appeal to raise funds to purchase new exercise equipment for the OPTIMUS exercise trial. And we are thrilled that our supporters all responded so generously. Not only have we reached that target but the equipment has been delivered and is now in use! Every pound you donated directly supported the OPTIMUS trial, improving survival outcomes for those battling oesophageal cancer.
A special thank you to The Wisley Foundation for their substantial donation of £10,000.
Dr David Bartlett, one of the clinical trial leaders, has given us a detailed description of each piece of equipment and how they benefit cancer patients.
- The Technogym Excite Live Vario Cross-trainer
- This innovative, low-impact cross-trainer with a unique Self-Adaptive Stride, allowing it to mimic natural movement from a gentle step to a long running stride (0-83cm), all without joint impact, offering full-body or lower-body workouts with moving handlebars, 25 resistance levels, and an engaging touchscreen console with entertainment, guided programs. It is perfect for clinical populations with limited physical capacity while provided the best possible low impact workout.
- Technogym Excite Live Treadmill
- This small but versatile treadmill features a large touchscreen console (often 19-inch) for Technogym Live workouts, virtual routes (Relive), entertainment apps, and real-time data. It has a wide, cushioned running deck with Optimal Stride for a natural feel, Fast Track Controls for easy adjustments, and powerful motors, offering a premium, comfortable, and motivating running experience. It is perfect for clinical populations who need the added comfort of the running deck and the distraction of their therapies, with fun walks in the likes of Singapore.
- Technogym SkillRow ergometer
- This indoor rower simulates real water rowing and offers both cardio and power training with minimal joint and bone pressure, thus improving anaerobic power, aerobic capacity, and neuromuscular skills. When connected to the app, it provides immersive workouts and AI coaching, making it suitable for clinical populations seeking total-body fitness with fluid, low-impact movement.
- Afias 3 Blood Analyser
- The AFIAS-3 is a compact, portable point-of-care immunoassay analyser featuring three test channels for simultaneous, rapid analysis of finger-prick blood biomarkers. We use this to ensure that patients are biologically OK for the exercise prescription and to track in real time the benefits of exercise on cancer biomarkers.
