Table of Contents
💪 Introduction
Why our ALGSO Fitness and Strength Training in Colpach Class is Perfect for Cancer Warriors:
Collective Strength
Our class of Fitness and Strength Training in Colpach, Luxembourg, provides a supportive and energising environment for participants, in a warm and vibrant community.
First and foremost, the most striking thing about this class is the atmosphere and energy of the group. Always ready to laugh, this is an extremely close-knit circle of friends who have become each other’s second family.
And the love doesn’t stop there; they welcome with open arms any new members, making them feel right at home within their first 10 steps in the sports room.
Group activities have been proven to produce high results in individual motivation and understanding. This “group effect” produces a collective upwards pull.
Often, when someone lacks motivation or is having a rough day, the rest of the group is there to energise and empathise, proving through action that they are stronger together.
Whether you’re tired from treatment or feeling low, this is a space where laughter, compassion and camaraderie do the heavy lifting.
Adaptability
The exercises are extremely adaptable, with everyone setting their own personal goals tailored to every individual’s situation.
For Maxime’s fitness trail section, there are usually three different ways to do it, and members can choose whichever one they prefer, even changing their minds mid-way through!
Depending on everyone’s needs, mood at the moment, and personal preferences, the sports session will vary greatly. It can range from cardio and muscle strengthening to hikes ending in a good helping of tiramisù!
Each coach brings their own style to the class, rotating now and then to offer variety while maintaining consistency. Petz favours a cardio session followed by group exercises, and Maxime is known for his infamous fitness trails!
No matter the coach, exercises are easily adapted. Participants can choose between multiple options for each movement, and are encouraged to go at their own pace. Whether you do half the exercises, prefer a chat and a stretch, or want to push yourself a little more that day — everything is possible.
Read on to discover more about our Colpach coaches!
A Safe Environment
Unlike a regular gym or fitness centre featuring a local group of butch lads trying to outdo each other, here there is no judgment. Everything is designed to be as judgment-free and welcoming as possible.
A direct result of the specialised coaches leading and adapting this class, who actively participate side by side with the members, and the welcoming, caring and empathic energy emanating from the participants. Their common experiences create an unspoken understanding.
Some people tell me what they’ve been through right away. Others need more time. I never ask directly, I give them the space to open up when they’re ready. What matters is that they feel safe
Petz Heinen – ALGSO coach in Colpach
We speak about cancer and treatment, but especially other things like holidays, trips, everyday things, and that’s what keeps us going.
Maxime Dierickx – ALGSO coach in Colpach
What to Expect in this Colpach Class:
The Sports Aspect
As mentioned before, the class can take on various aspects depending on the mood and needs of the group, as well as the coach leading the class that day, so here are a few examples of what it can look like:
Not ones to stay on the sidelines, our fantastically committed coaches are always the first to jump into the exercise, demonstrating how to do it and supporting participants with their own participation, sweat and humour.
They will also step back to give corrections when needed (or remind a particularly chatty duo of how to do the exercise 😉), keenly observing everyone’s progress, energy and rhythm.
They are always there to adapt, gently push, or channel their enthusiasm and never miss a beat or an opportunity to laugh!
I love to playfully tease them. When they are on the bikes, I love coming to them and increasing the watts.
Maxime Dierickx – ALGSO coach in Colpach
I always prepare a plan, but I change it 10 minutes before depending on who walks in. Some days people are chatty, some days they’re quiet, some days they’re silly. You have to go with the flow.
Petz Heinen – ALGSO coach in Colpach
The Social Aspect
One of Maxime’s very few rules (though he will always ask a new member’s permission first) is that everyone calls each other by their first name and uses the informal “tu” instead of “vous”.
Here, there is no judgement, only support, empathy and genuine love.
We had a new member join us recently. The minute she arrived, everyone went to introduce themselves and give her a hug. There are no explanations needed, everyone understands each other.
Maxime Dierickx – ALGSO coach in Colpach
From moving crew to furniture builders, this group shows up for each other in any way possible, in and outside of the sports class. Whenever it is someone’s birthday, they bring the aperitif, and after 1 hour 30 minutes of workout, they party!
It really feels like family. Sometimes they tell me, ‘We haven’t seen you in weeks! Want to come for coffee?’
Petz Heinen – ALGSO coach in Colpach
In a group where everyone has each other’s back, no one, and nothing, gets left behind. From lending a helping hand, to supporting each other’s passions, this group won’t let you down!
For example:
What started out as a common passion for a coffee-based Italian dessert ended up in a full-blown tiramisù challenge!
We have some members who love preparing tiramisù, and during the summer they would take turns making some. We would go for a hike, and end it on the benches for dessert!
Maxime Dierickx – ALGSO coach in Colpach
🎤 Meet the Coaches
Maxime Dierickx
A positive, highly sensitive and incredibly sweet human being, our Belgian Fitness and Strength Training coach in Colpach, Maxime Dierickx, is always up for a laugh (and usually at his own expense).
Patricia “Petz” Heinen
Full of spark and empathy, Petz is a sports therapist with a background in oncology, psychology, music, and the arts. She brings creativity and flexibility to every session — and sometimes, her certified companion dog Daya joins the outdoor fun.
📍 The Location
Where it Happens and What to Expect:
Address:
Centre de Réhabilitation du Château de Colpach
1 Am Schlasspark
8527 Colpach-Bas
Luxembourg
There is plenty of parking space available at the rehabilitation center.
Surrounded by greenery and a peaceful atmosphere this is the perfect place to unwind.
Changing rooms and showers are also available.
Photos of the Space:
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if I feel too tired to participate?
Ask in the Whats app group what the programme is, and still come!
Everything can be adapted and there is no pressure to do the whole thing. You can also take part only in the exercises you feel capable of doing, or just come for a chat.
“You need 21 consecutive days to make something become a habit, so take courage and try to come regularly, even if you just come to chat, still come, make it a habit.” Maxime Dierickx – ALGSO coach in Colpach
Are the classes safe for my condition?
Yes! All the exercises can be adapted and the coach takes good care of you.
If you are worried or unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the ALGSO, and we can provide all the information you need, or give you the contact details of our coach so you can have a little chat. 😉
Do I need prior experience to attend this class?
Not at all.
“Come as you are” is Maxime’s favourite expression. You do not need to have done any sports before, or have any knowledge of the exercises. Everyone is welcome no matter their age, experience, nationality or capability.
What language is the class given in?
French is the main language, but English, Luxembourgish and German are also spoken.
Is there an indoors and outdoors option?
Yes. usually the class takes place indoors, in the rehabilitation center’s fitness rooms and hallways (for the fitness trail). However, when the weather is nice, the fitness trail will take place in the castle’s beautiful park.
Hikes, naturally, take place outdoors.
What do I need to bring?
– A bottle of water
– A towel (for the class, and there are showers available)
– Comfortable clothes (not necessarily sports clothes, just anything you feel comfortable in)
– Sports shoes (especially for the machines)
In order to become an ALGSO member, you will need a medical certificate from your doctor, certifying that you are able to do sports. Read more here.
Is Daya the dog always there?
No, only when Petz is leading the class and they go for a hike. But let us know if you have allergies or concerns — we’re happy to adapt.
📅 Schedule & How to Join
When: Every Monday from 6:30pm – 8:00pm
Where: Centre de Réhabilitation du Château de Colpach
Duration: 90 minutes
Cost: Free for ALGSO members
📩 Email us or reach us via our contact form
📞 +352 691 250 028
🔗 Register as an ALGSO member now!