A breast cancer diagnosis reveals many uncertainties. One thing that is certain, however, is that exercise should be a priority throughout your diagnosis, treatment and recovery. While you will have to make modifications to your fitness regimen depending on which stage of the journey you are in, the benefits of exercise may be invaluable.
Benefits
Exercise can increase energy levels, relieve stress, decrease anxiety and depression and maintain your appetite. If exercise was a part of your pre-diagnosis routine, continuing to exercise may give you a feeling of normalcy. It is common for women to gain weight after a breast cancer diagnosis. Physically, you may feel too tired to exercise. Emotionally, you may find it difficult to get motivated. Exercising with a friend will make you accountable and give you a chance to talk about the ups and downs related to your diagnosis. Maintaining a healthy weight may improve your self-esteem and self-image. Mild exercise can also help with lyphedema, a common side effect of breast surgeries that remove one or more lymph nodes. Exercise helps lymphatic fluid move back up the arm and back into the circulation, reducing swelling in the arm. During a time when so many aspects of your health seem out of control, exercising may give you the sense of control you need to actively fight breast cancer.
Recommended Exercises
The recommended exercises for breast cancer patients truly vary among individuals. The important thing is not necessarily what type of exercise you do, but that you do exercise and exercise regularly. Yoga and Pilates seem to be favorites of some women with breast cancer. They involve a lot of floor work, which seems to require less energy than standing up. Women are able to exercise at their own pace. Yoga and Pilates are also good for reducing stress. Walking, light strength training and water aerobics are other exercise options. Check with your doctor throughout your breast cancer journey to determine what exercises are appropriate for you.
Time Frame
The Mayo Clinic recommends gentle exercise several days a week and increasing as you feel up to it. Start out slowly and be careful not to overdo it. You may have to take more rest periods than you are used to. If you are having a bad week, still try to exercise, if only for 5-10 minutes. While a power walk may be unrealistic, stretching, deep breathing and doing range of motion exercises can make a big difference.
Considerations
Always ask your doctor for permission to exercise, especially if you have not been active recently. After breast surgery, it is important to do range of motion exercises with the surgical side arm. However, you may not be able to do so until drains and stitches are removed. It is important to communicate with your doctor to determine the specific exercise restrictions and modifications. If you feel like you need additional guidance and support, ask your doctor to refer you to a physical therapist or specialized trainer who will be able to customize a fitness program to meet your unique needs.
Prevention
While exercising regularly may have positive effects on those who already have breast cancer, it may also play a role in preventing breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, regular physical activity can significantly lower your lifetime risk of cancer. While there is no guarantee that you will not develop cancer, incorporating regular exercise into a healthy lifestyle will decrease your chances of being another victim.
