Fitness Tips for Cancer Patients
It is essential to stay active when dealing with cancer. It may also be one of the most difficult tasks to accomplish on a regular basis due to the side effects of treatment or the limiting aspects of the disease itself.
There are a few things to consider when approaching exercise as a cancer patient.
• Be aware of your limits, accept that you may not be able to run a mile like you previously were able to.
• Fatigue is a large part of having and treating the disease.
• There are going to be days that you simply do not want to exercise.
The key is to plan around these issues and create built in methods of encouragement to keep participating in daily activity.
You may find that there is a certain time of day that you seem to have more energy. Keep this in mind and plan to go for a walk, work in the garden, or go shopping. Exercise does not mean that you are required to go to a gym.
Provide multiple methods of activity to indulge in. On days that are good, and energy is high, participate in more rigorous activity like a good jog or lifting weights. The days that are difficult to get out of bed, plan for easier activities, consider stretching, yoga, or Tai Chi.
Start with small goals, then extend if still feeling well enough to continue. For example, set the goal of 15 minutes of planned activity a day. If it is a good day and the 15 minutes is completed, continue exercising if able to.
Plan to participate in something that brings enjoyment or interest, this will encourage participation.
• Walk on trails rather than on the neighborhood streets
• Go to a park or a dog park
• Volunteer with a school
• Participate in arts and crafts or gardening
• Take a class to learn yoga or tai chi
• Visit a museum, art gallery, or mall
Invite friends or family members to participate in the exercise. This is a great bonding experience and makes the time pass more rapidly. It also offers encouragement to continue the effort.
Physical activity is important for people suffering from all types of cancer, including breast cancer, bladder cancer and even rare types like papillary mesothelioma. Discuss with your physician the right activity level for your current health. While regular exercise is an excellent method to manage stress and boost the immune system, too much can cause unwanted complications.
Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. She wants to make a difference in people’s lives because she sees how cancer has devastated so many people in this world. Liz also likes running, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with her dog, April.
