Go to just about any marathon, and you’ll find people raising money for cancer research. We all know somebody that has been impacted by some sort of cancer or another.
Today’s guest post is by Kate Flaherty, an outreach coordinator for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance.
She is passionate about nutrition and fitness and believes that it is incredibly important during the battle to overcome any type of cancer.
Struggling with cancer can be physically and emotionally taxing. Many cancer patients are concerned with staying as healthy as possible while dealing with the effects of the illness. Additionally, people who are in treatment seek ways to prevent the cancer from returning. One of the best methods of optimizing a healthy system and staving off future problems is through regular daily exercise.
Studies indicate that exercise can reduce the risk of some types of cancer and benefit those diagnosed with aggressive cancers like mesothelioma. A regular exercise regimen can vastly improve a mesothelioma prognosis. Raising the levels of physical exercise may also increase the chance of survival after a diagnosis has been given. In addition to preventing future cancers from forming, exercise can also enhance the recovery of a cancer patient.
Exercise provides countless benefits to healthy individuals, and cancer patients can experience the positive results as well. A proper workout program will improve mood as well as optimize confidence. Exercising provides strength and lessens the amount of fatigue a person may feel during cancer treatment. Regular workouts can also increase energy and alleviate nausea, which is beneficial for chemo sessions.
Cancer treatments often slow a person down. An individual facing cancer may become stressed and depressed, which often leads to a sedentary lifestyle. It is important for someone diagnosed with cancer to begin exercising immediately. The best way to begin any workout program is to start off slowly. Cancer depletes the body of energy, so a gradual increase of exercise is best.
The most ideal way for a cancer patient to start an exercise program is with small goals. Strength and stamina build in increments. Beginning with an easy, enjoyable activity is a good idea. Walking, bike riding and swimming are good initial pursuits. Running is excellent exercise for those who can handle the impact. It is also possible to get moderate exercise by increasing basic, daily activities around the house.
Cancer patients should participate in various forms of exercise. Flexibility exercises, aerobics and strength training should be included in a weekly workout. Flexibility exercises will enhance mobility while aerobic activities will build cardiovascular strength. Strength training builds muscle which is often lost during cancer treatments. For those who become easily fatigued, it is a good idea to take a day of rest in between workouts.
It is recommended that an individual with cancer take part in 30 to 60 minutes of exercise 5 days per week. The activity may be light to moderate depending on the person’s individual diagnosis. Combining a regular exercise routine with cancer therapy can be advantageous to virtually anyone struggling with the illness. No matter what type of activity is performed, daily exercise can encourage a smooth recovery.
Recent Comments: