The Power of Exercise in Cancer Treatment and Recovery

While the journey through cancer treatment and recovery is unimaginably challenging, exercise can play a big role in helping you make it through and improve your quality of life in survivorship. In this article, we discuss how exercise can help during various types of cancer treatments and some tips on how to get started safely!

Hormonal Treatments

Some medications, particularly for breast and prostate cancers, are life-savers when it comes to shrinking tumor masses and extending long-term survival rates, but an unfortunate side effect is decreased muscle strength and bone density. This is where strength training comes in! Similarly to how strength training helps to address bone and muscle loss in the normal aging process, it has also been shown to be effective in reversing the loss of strength common to these types of treatments.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a powerful treatment and you may already know that it really takes a toll on your body. Regular physical activity can help combat fatigue, improve mood, and enhance your quality of life during chemotherapy. Whether it's a gentle walk around the block, a dance party in your living room, or a relaxing yoga session, movement can help. Remember to listen to your body, rest when needed and, most importantly, follow your healthcare team's recommendations!

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is precise and targeted, but it can sometimes leave you feeling fatigued. Cardiovascular activities, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, can help strengthen your heart and increase your energy levels. Not only that, but exercise is also a fantastic way to relieve stress and clear your mind.

Surgery

Surgery is a big step in your cancer journey, and the road to recovery after this can seem daunting. After surgery, it's important to ease back into physical activity gradually, with guidance from your healthcare team - particularly a physical therapist if possible. Gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises can help you regain flexibility and mobility, while strength training can rebuild your muscles. As you progress, you'll find yourself reclaiming your strength, one rep at a time.

Energy Watch-Outs

Be sure to watch for increasing fatigue with any new exercise program. If you notice yourself feeling way more tired after a workout, decrease the intensity or duration of your exercise but not the frequency. For example, if you just did a 20 minute routine and feel way more pooped than you’d like, instead of skipping it next time - try doing only 10 minutes (duration) or using lighter weights (intensity).

When you feel simply too tired to exercise, start with small, but frequent bouts of movement - like a 5 minute walk, 2-3 times a day. It’s consistency with exercise that is the most important - not intensity!

In Conclusion...

Keep in mind that everyone’s journey is unique, so it's essential to work with your healthcare team to develop an exercise plan tailored to your needs.

If you are cleared to begin strength training and you don’t know where to start, you can check out my free beginner strength training routine blog post OR reach out to me here for a free consultation. If you are local to the Socal South Bay, you can also check out my free monthly class and other resources at the Cancer Support Community South Bay.

P.S. Always consult with your healthcare team before starting any new exercise routine, especially during cancer treatment.