I was recently contacted by Melanie Bowen who asked if I would like to post an article she wrote on cancer recovery and exercise. I think you'll really enjoy her article:
Improve
Your Quality of Life During Cancer Recovery with Exercise
Undergoing treatment for cancer can be a physically and
emotionally draining process for patients. While it may seem logical to avoid
exercise during treatment, research actually suggests that physical activity
during cancer recovery can greatly improve your quality of life. Cancer
patients who exercise have reported an improvement in fatigue and anxiety levels
as well as an increased self-esteem. The intensity and type of the exercises
you do will depend on the status of your treatment. Make sure to include your
physician as you plan your physical activity during recovery.
Light
Activity Recommendation
Light activity is ideal for those currently undergoing aggressive
cancer treatments. Often, light exercises may be very suitable for those
battling pleural mesothelioma or other cancers that affect the lungs that make breathing
difficult. This type of physical activity is generally characterized by being
able to breathe easily, carry a full conversation and not break a sweat. Walking
is an excellent choice for light exercise since it does not require any
expensive equipment and can be done at your own pace.
Patients beginning an exercise program can start with a short,
slow walk to the mailbox and work their way up to a longer walk around the
block. Walking is shown to provide emotional benefits as well as an improvement
in muscle strength, stamina and endurance. Walkers also benefit from a slowdown
of bone loss and an increase in energy that serves to combat the effects of
chemotherapy and radiation.
Moderate
Activity Recommendation
Those who are actively recovering from cancer treatment and
beginning to regain their strength will benefit from moderate exercise. During
this type of activity, the pace of breathing increases to a comfortable level
and generally sweating will occur after about 10 minutes of exercise. If you
are planning to begin an exercise program that includes moderate physical
activity, consider implementing yoga into your daily routine. The benefits of
this popular form of physical activity include a decrease in stress and
fatigue, improved flexibility and better quality of sleep. Yoga studios are
fairly easy to find in most communities. In addition, many cancer centers provide yoga classes to patients due to this exercise's ability to
lower the increased stress and pain levels that often occur with cancer
treatments.
Vigorous Activity Recommendation
Advanced exercise is suggested for cancer patients in the later
stages of recovery who are looking to regain lost strength and improve their
overall condition. This type of physical activity will generally result in
deep, rapid breathing, sweating and the inability to carry on a full
conversation. WebMD suggests running for those patients who are ready for an
increased level of activity. The benefits of running for cancer patients
include increased energy, improved muscle strength, endurance and stamina, and
a slowdown of bone loss. Runners can begin at their own pace and work up to faster
speeds and longer distances when ready.
Scientific research and patient experience show that the benefits
of exercise during cancer treatment are vast. Wherever you are in your
treatment, you can choose an appropriate exercise for your suggested level of
activity. Whether you decide to walk, do yoga or run, with regular exercise you
can expect to enjoy improved energy levels, increased stamina, a slowdown of
bone loss, and many emotional and psychological benefits as well, so talk to
your doctor and get started today.
Melanie is currently a Master's student with a passion that stems from
her grandmother's cancer diagnosis. She often highlights the great
benefits of alternative nutritional, emotional, and physical treatments
on those diagnosed with cancer or other serious illness. To read more
from Melanie, visit her blog
for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. In her spare time, you can find
Melanie trying new vegan recipes, on her yoga mat, or spending time with
her family.