After receiving a cancer diagnosis, such as mesothelioma, breast cancer or any other type of cancer, exercise might be the furthest thing from your mind. But even most oncologists will say that exercise can be extremely beneficial before, during and after your treatment for cancer. The way in which you choose to incorporate exercise into your routine is up to you. Physicians and researchers agree that 30 minutes of exercise five times each week can help you maintain or even improve your physical fitness while undergoing treatment.
According to the National Cancer Institute, the benefits of exercise to cancer patients have been well-documented, proving to be especially helpful in the areas of fighting fatigue and maintain physical functioning– two areas that directly affect the quality of life.
Here are some tips on using exercise to help you fight fatigue, maintain range of movement and keep you physically fit during your fight against cancer.
Speak to Your Health Care Providers
Your health care providers can assist you in determining the types of exercise that would be beneficial for you. Additionally, they can offer advice regarding how often to exercise and with what intensity. By making a plan with your doctors or other health care workers on how to incorporate exercise into your week you can do so safely.
Slow and Sensible Wins the Race
Start off slowly when adding exercise to your daily schedule. Exercising for a few short periods throughout the day might be more manageable and is just as beneficial as exercising during one longer timespan.
Dealing With Balance Issues
If balance is an issue, exercise using equipment that allows you to sit or hold onto something. A stationery bike is ideal for this as are treadmills or elliptical trainers that allow you to hold on the entire time you’re moving. Swimming is also an effective exercise that supports your weight in the water, making exercise less strenuous overall.
Avoiding Germs With a Weakened Immune System
No matter how clean a health club is germs still exist on gym equipment. Rather than expose yourself to germs and bacteria when your immune system is weak, choose to exercise at home with sports equipment or exercise DVDs until it’s safe to workout in a public place again.
Written by David Haas from the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance