Cancer Fitness Programs- Exercise for Therapy and Recovery
Written by David Haas, a blogger for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance
From Your Coach: As a survivor of breast cancer I can vouch for the healing effects of exercise in cancer recovery and therapy. When diagnosed, those long runs and walks helped me make sense of my life and my cancer. During recovery, exercise gave me some control over my condition and enabled me to feel I was directly involved in getting better. - Coach Stephanie
It is true that physical fitness cannot cure cancer; however, it still remains a vital component in fighting back the disease and even throughout the recovery process because studies have shown that the benefits of exercise outweigh inactivity.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends a safe, effective physical fitness program during cancer therapy and recovery. Physical activity increases energy and strength, enhances coordination and balance, and improves a patient’s overall well-being. Contrary to logical thinking, exercise also reduces the pain, fatigue, and nausea associated with cancer treatment.
Cancer and other chronic illnesses are energy zappers that reduce muscular strength and interfere with the ability to perform everyday activities. According to the ACSM, a patient having a specialized cancer fitness program is a good way for patients to regain their physical fitness and combat fatigue and anxiety.
Many patients wonder about the physical activities they can perform during therapy and recovery. What exercises are good for cancer patients? How much is enough, and how much is too much? The answers to these questions vary. The most important part of any cancer fitness program is working alongside a professional or a doctor who can tailor a specific plan based on fitness level, cancer type, and cancer stage.
Mesothelioma, a rare asbestos-related cancer, makes exercise difficult for most patients suffering with this particular disease due to the respiratory problems and general weakness that illness causes. People with other late-stage cancers may also find exercise challenging, for many of the same reasons. However, most patients can engage in some type of physical activity, even that means a walk down the hall or gentle stretches in bed.
Most cancer fitness programs focus on whole-body fitness that strengthens the body, combats depression, and boosts self-confidence. New ACSM guidelines strongly recommend exercise during cancer therapy. As much as they are able, patients should follow the 2008 physical activity guidelines.
The current guidelines recommend 150 minutes of exercise each week. Inactivity should be avoided, even for patients going through difficult cancer treatments. Fitness programs should be tailored for a patient’s individual needs to avoid injury. The ACSM suggests guideline modifications for certain cancer types, including breast, prostate, colon, blood, and bone marrow cancers.
Clinical research and anecdotal studies suggest cancer patients experience improved body image as a result of exercise. A better body image, improved strength and endurance, reduced pain and fatigue, and a better quality of life make physical fitness important for cancer therapy and recovery.
