How Exercise Helps Cancer Patients

By David Haas

Does the phrase “cancer fitness” seem like an oxymoron? Fatigue -- not the normal kind, but extreme, bone-weary tiredness -- is a common symptom of cancer treatment, especially aggressive therapies like radiation and chemotherapy. Many people experience fatigue after treatment, too; it often follows them for years.

Fatigue makes it difficult for cancer patients to move, exercise, and do all the things they want and need to do. Yet, exercise is the perfect antidote to fatigue. The American Cancer Society encourages it. Research shows that patients who follow a custom-made exercise plan enjoy better physical, emotional, and social health.

Granted, exercise is usually the farthest thing on the mind of most cancer patients. But regular physical activity can reduce fatigue, increase energy, and help patients cope with the side effects of cancer treatment. Cancer and fitness may seem diametrically opposed, but exercise is the perfect complement to cancer therapy.

Health Benefits of Exercise

Combined with a nutritious diet, exercise helps patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight. It improves heart and lung health; strengthens muscles, bones, and joints; and enhances the immune system, too.

Patients who participate in regular activities are happier, healthier people. They feel better about themselves and their relationships. And they are much better equipped to deal with the challenges of cancer.

Motivation and Choices

Fitness, endurance, stamina, and strength naturally decline during the treatment phase of cancer. Patients must reach inside themselves for energy and motivation to exercise. The type of exercise and amount of activity depends on initial fitness level, age, cancer type, and other factors. A good plan will fit the patient’s unique situation.

An older cancer patient who never exercised may have to start with gentle stretches and short walks. A young person may be able to handle running and tennis games. Bedside physical therapy may be the best option for mesothelioma patients. Yoga is a good choice for breast cancer survivors, but weightlifting should be avoided after surgery.

It often helps to join an exercise class, where the members motivate and support each other. An exercise buddy keeps some patients on track. Involving friends and family in a new sport or exercise program is a fun way to add exercise to cancer therapy.

Balancing Activity and Rest

Historically, physicians advised cancer patients to avoid vigorous activity and get plenty of rest. This advice still holds true for many cancer patients, who are just too worn out from their cancer symptoms and treatment side effects. It is essential to balance physical activity with periods of rest. Cancer patients must learn to listen to their bodies, rest when they need to, and never exercise without doctor approval.

Thanks to David Haas for being a guest blogger for 3 Sport Fitness!!!

http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/BreastCancer/DetailedGuide/breast-cancer-after-lifestyle-changes
http://www.mesothelioma.com/mesothelioma/