Cancer treatment can take a toll on your physical and emotional state. Fatigue, weakness, and pain are common side effects that can significantly impact your daily life. However, incorporating exercise into your routine during treatment can be a powerful tool to combat these challenges and improve your overall well-being.
Benefits of Exercise During Cancer Treatment
According to Cancer Research UK, regular exercise during cancer treatment offers a multitude of benefits, including:
- Reduced Fatigue: Exercise can help combat fatigue, a common symptom experienced by many undergoing treatment. It improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to your cells, increasing energy levels.
- Improved strength and muscle mass: Cancer treatments can lead to muscle loss. Strength training exercises help you maintain and rebuild muscle mass, which can improve balance, coordination, and overall strength.
- Enhanced mood and reduced stress: Exercise is a natural mood booster. It releases endorphins, hormones that have mood-lifting and pain-relieving properties. Regular physical activity can also help manage stress and anxiety, common emotions during cancer treatment.
- Better sleep: Exercise can promote better sleep quality, another area often disrupted by treatment. Aim for moderate-intensity exercise earlier to avoid interfering with nighttime sleep.
- Improved immune function: Regular physical activity can strengthen your immune system, potentially aiding your body in fighting cancer cells.
Exercises Beneficial During Cancer Treatment
The best exercise programme for you during cancer treatment will depend on several factors, including your overall fitness level, type of cancer, and treatment side effects. Discussing your plans with your doctor or oncologist before starting any new exercise routine is crucial. They can help you create a safe and effective programme tailored to your specific needs.
- Aerobic Exercise: These exercises get your heart rate up and improve your cardiovascular health. Examples include walking, swimming, cycling, and dancing. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
- Strength Training: Building muscle strength helps manage fatigue and improves balance. You can use light weights, resistance bands, or even bodyweight exercises like squats and lunges. Start with low weights and gradually increase as you get stronger.
- Flexibility Exercises: Maintaining flexibility can help reduce joint stiffness and pain, which can be side effects of treatment. Gentle stretches can be incorporated into your daily routine.
- Balance Exercises: These exercises help improve your stability and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Simple activities like standing on one leg or walking heel-to-toe can be effective.
Here are some tips to help you get started and stay motivated with your exercise routine:
- Start slowly and gradually increase intensity and duration.
- Listen to your body and take rest days when needed.
- Find activities you enjoy. Exercise should be something you look forward to, not dread.
- Break down your goals into smaller, achievable steps.
- Consider exercising with a friend or family member for added support.
- Track your progress and celebrate your achievements.
Remember, any amount of activity is better than none. Even short bursts of exercise throughout the day can be beneficial. Exercise can be a powerful tool to empower yourself during cancer treatment. By incorporating physical activity into your routine, you can improve your physical and emotional well-being, navigate treatment with greater strength, and enhance your overall quality of life.