One of the most common side effects from most forms of cancer treatment is debilitating fatigue. Whether you yourself, a loved one, a friend or colleague has at some point undergone cancer treatments, cast your mind back to what they would reply when you asked them how they felt.
The modern treatments of chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and hormone therapy have all undergone significant changes over recent years and cancer survival rates are now the highest they’ve ever been. However, as I can testify myself, there is definitely a significant “hit” to energy levels.
Due to the array of supplementary protocols that I had in place I never quite got the wiped out feeling that many people that I have spoken to describe, but for someone who usually has almost limitless energy levels, I did feel myself lethargic, light headed, achy and in need of more sleep than I did prior to treatment.
I was definitely one of the lucky ones as I have a husband who is an expert level trainer who had done his research and knew the benefits to me continuing to exercise, albeit at a lower intensity than before treatment. Even on days when I was adamant “NOT today”, I remember him saying “Just a walk in nature then…get your coat on”, and to his credit every time I did, I felt much better.
So does the research back up my own experiences?
In a word – Yes! despite so many people around me telling me “Slow down…you need to rest”, the latest research is actually on the side of exercise as one of the absolute best ways to overcome cancer related fatigue.
Obviously, the level of your exercise with cancer depends upon many variables such as your fitness level prior to diagnosis and existing co-morbidities, however for many people the guidelines for exercise are similar to those without cancer and include:
* Aiming for 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming…even gardening.
* Aiming for 2 muscular strength endurance sessions per week training various muscle groups with weights or resistance bands.
As with any exercise programme there are exceptions and clearance from your oncologist/specialist/physiotherapist is always advised before you begin a new exercise programme with cancer.
Best of all, the benefits of exercise with cancer can be enjoyed at any stage of treatment with new research measuring the benefits of cycling whilst having intravenous chemotherapy – quite incredible!
If someone you know could benefit from exercise during their cancer journey, please note that it doesn’t have to be in a Gym. Walking in nature, walking the dog, simply getting out and about…it all helps. It also helps prevent some of the feelings of loneliness and isolation that many patients feel during treatment.
If you know anyone who’d simply like a few pointers or a chat regarding exercise during their cancer journey, please reach out, I’d Love to connect.
Stay awesome!
Vanessa x
