Fencing helps breast cancer recovery in France
French association Solution Riposte uses fencing to improve physical and mental health post-surgery.
Dominique Hornus-Dragne, left, realised that fencing could help
Solution Riposte
Women in France who have had surgery for breast cancer are turning to fencing to help with their physical and mental recovery.
The sessions are offered by an association called Solution Riposte, which is now present in 115 clubs and has welcomed more than 1,000 participants.
It was created by Dominique Hornus-Dragne, 71, a retired anaesthetist and national doctor for the French fencing federation.
She was inspired by studies that emerged in 2008 emphasising the importance of sport for recovery post-op, as well as complaints from women about shoulder problems.
Dr Hornus-Dragne, a fencer since the age of 10, naturally thought of fencing which opens the shoulders in the guard position and provides other strengthening moves.
“Women with breast cancer, even if the breast was not removed, have difficulty doing many daily tasks, such as brushing their hair, putting their bra on, reaching for something on a shelf or opening a window,” she told The Connexion. “They are constantly reminded of their breast cancer because of these movements.
Another benefit is in the kit fencers wear – the rigid chest protector gives all female fencers the same silhouette, improving self-image.
“This is a very important element because when wearing a T-shirt, breast cancer becomes apparent, but with a chest protector it is invisible.”
Read more: What essential health screenings are available for free in France?
Why is fencing good for breast cancer patients?
Solution Riposte began with just a few women but the benefits were quickly noticed and more and more clubs wanted to take part.
In 2012, the association began offering training days to coaches to ensure any woman entering a fencing club would not need to explain the situation she was in.
More benefits were uncovered as time went on, such as how the sport nurtures a fighting spirit and offers a healthy way of releasing anger.
“I remember one of the first ladies to join, Chantelle, who was really beautiful and had been deeply psychologically affected by the effects of the cancer and the operation on her body,” said Dr Hornus-Dragne.
“She told me that the physical benefits were important, but what really mattered to her was that she regained her elegance. She regained her posture and her style thanks to the sport of fencing.”
Read more: Half of women in France not aware of breast cancer risk factors
What does Solution Riposte offer?
Solution Riposte offers more than just classes. Coaches supervise participants closely and are in regular contact with the association’s doctors through a WhatsApp group. For example, they will contact a psychologist if they think a woman is struggling or acting unusually.
Training programmes are continuously adapted to offer the best care and recovery.
The association is open to people recovering from other forms of cancer, although the benefits are more closely linked with breast cancer.
People wishing to take up fencing as part of their recovery can find participating clubs on the Solution Riposte website.
It is free to take part for the first six months or year, and equipment is provided, but the association relies on donations to continue and expand.
