Exercising and Chemotherapy

You may have heard that people receiving chemotherapy are advised to rest between sessions. That was once true, but nowadays physicians are more likely to encourage patients to exercise regularly. Patients should consult their doctor before initiating an exercise program.

Benefits of moderate exercise

Light- to moderate-intensity walking programs and other forms of exercise help many people with cancer. The benefits of such exercise may include:

• More physical energy (less fatigue)
• Increased appetite
• Better outlook and sense of well-being
• Improved ability to meet challenges of treatment
• Better functioning in daily activities

Encourage friends and family to join your exercise program . You may get more benefits when family members are involved.

What makes good exercise?

The best level of exercise for people with cancer has not been established. The goal, however, is to maintain your endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility. The more you exercise, the more your ability to function will improve.

Start slowly at first. Then, over the next few weeks, increase your duration as your endurance builds. Working your heart is essential to making your exercise more effective. Even so, you should pay attention not to overexert your body. Monitor your heart rate, your breathing, and the tiredness of your muscles. If you start to get short of breath or very tired, rest for a few moments.

If you exercised regularly before beginning chemotherapy, you may need to reduce the intensity and the amount of exercise during treatment.

Types of Exercise

Consider exercising every day or several times a week. Forms of good exercise include: walking, swimming and yoga. Not only is walking good exercise, but taking a walk before meals can help you feel hungrier.