Karel Kalivoda, Cluster General Manager at the Marianske Lazne on how ONKOFIT-SPA empowers women through gentle guidance, community, and sustainable lifestyle change.
ONKOFIT-SPA programme is the winner of the ESPA Special Jury Innovation Award 2025 in category Innovative Health Spa Programme.
“Excess body fat increases recurrence risk for breast cancer survivors. How do you talk about weight and nutrition with women who’ve just been through cancer treatment? What’s your approach to making this feel supportive rather than pressuring?”
Excess body fat is indeed a known risk factor for breast cancer recurrence. We explain to women that in postmenopausal patients, adipose tissue becomes the main source of estrogen production – a risk particularly relevant for hormone-dependent breast cancers, where elevated estrogen levels may support tumour growth. Because this is such a sensitive topic, we approach it with great empathy, clarity, and without any form of judgement.
In the ONKOFIT-SPA programme, we never create pressure related to body image or performance. These women come to us after a demanding period of cancer treatment, often exhausted physically and emotionally. Our role is to support their recovery, confidence, and sense of safety. When we discuss weight and nutrition, we use exclusively health-focused language, emphasising long-term prognosis and quality of life. We highlight that even small, realistic adjustments in physical activity and eating habits can bring meaningful benefits.
A very important element of the programme is the structured spa stay within a supportive female community of patients who share the same diagnosis. Sharing experiences, participating in group activities, and regaining a sense of physical strength often increases self-confidence and fosters strong motivation to continue the new habits at home after the spa stay.
Our approach is fully individualised. Each participant has access to a nutrition therapist and physiotherapist in a respectful, safe environment where she can speak openly. We focus on sustainable lifestyle habits rather than restrictive diets.
“One of the most powerful elements of ONKOFIT-SPA is the female community. Women arrive exhausted, but through shared experience and group activities, they rediscover strength, confidence, and hope.”
Karel Kalivoda
Our data clearly show that this combination of empathetic communication, education, and expert guidance has a long-term positive impact—improving physical performance, body composition, and overall quality of life after cancer treatment. Through this supportive approach, we help women regain not only their health but also a sense of control over their bodies and their future.
Read more about the Oncology Recovery Retreat Programme
Website: https://lazneml.cz/post-onkologicky-program/
