Exercise is treatment – not just an add-on for well-being.
When you receive that shattering diagnosis “You have breast cancer”, the last thing on your mind is likely to be exercise. But research has proven exercise is one of the most effect and important elements of your cancer treatment plan.
Oncologists (the field of study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer) insist that exercise, especially post-surgery, is essential to help treat cancer and to improve your quality of life. Exercise should be an integral part of your treatment plan. This is Exercise Oncology.
Your medical team will recommend an exercise plan following your breast cancer surgery. This plan will include breathing, stretching and movement and will be a gradual regime that builds up gradually over a period of weeks and months. You can also source your own plan if you prefer, maybe one that suits your situation better.
Your exercise plan should include the following:
Breathing – essential to improve shortness of breath and strengthen your lungs.
Stretching – restores muscle flexibility and increases blood flow.
Balance – strengthen your body to prevent falls.
Building stamina – building strong muscles helps curb fatigue.
Building strength – overall muscle strength eases stress, depression, and anxiety.
There is a surplus of post-operative exercise programmes available, some better than others, and some will suit you better than others. Just as long as you find one you like and follow it. This will be the greatest gift you can give yourself on your road to recovery.
Benefits of Exercise Oncology
Exercise during and after breast cancer treatment can help reduce side effects like fatigue and nausea. It can also reduce stress, depression, and anxiety that are common with a cancer diagnosis. Physical activity improves your mobility, boosting your overall independence. Best of all, studies prove that exercising post-breast cancer surgery reduces pain.
Benefits of post-surgery exercise include improved mood, better sleep, increased survival rates of certain cancers and a reduced recovery time.
Tips to Start Exercise Oncology
- Start gradually. Especially if you have not exercised before.
- Follow a plan that suits you and one you think you can stick to.
- Become familiar with exercise terms.
- Type is the kind of activity you decide to do, such as biking, walking, strength training, etc.
- Frequency is the number of times per week you exercise.
- Intensity is how hard you exercise.
- Length is the amount of time you spend doing physical activities.
- Follow a programme and record your progress. It will give you a sense of achievement and help you on your road to recovery.
- If you find it difficult to stick to an exercise plan consider hiring a personal trainer who will keep you focused and committed.
- Join group exercise classes so you feel more engaged and committed.
- Once you are exercising regularly, change your routine so your body doesn’t fall into a comfortable existence.
love, Bonita