Exercise is a preventive measure to many diseases, including cancer. However, some of the healthiest people can still develop to cancer. Breast cancer is not a time to give up on your exercise regimen. Regular exercise not only makes you feel better, but can increase your chance for survival, according to Medline Plus. There are exercise programs available tailored to breast cancer patients that can help you cope better with treatment.
Facilities
Exercise programs for breast cancer consist of group exercises or one-on-one training with a personal instructor. According to the "Los Angeles Times," such facilities focus on fitness needs during different stages of breast cancer and treatment. Chemotherapy can often lead to weight loss, which can be detrimental to performing daily activities. Exercise programs aim to balance cardio and strength training to reduce fatigue and decreased muscle.
Recommendations
Generally the American Cancer Society recommends 45 to 60 minutes of exercise five times a week for breast cancer prevention. However, Medline Plus reports that 150 minutes a week is enough to improve your breast cancer survival rate. Incorporate cardiovascular workouts such as walking and swimming into these blocks of time. Strength-training workouts should be performed in addition to this time. By engaging in a certified breast cancer program, a trainer can help you keep track of your progress and how to boost the intensity level when you are ready to.
Benefits
Exercise offers many benefits during, before and after breast cancer treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, exercise helps increase energy levels and improves your mood. This helps prevent you from developing depression. Breast cancer increases your risk of muscle mass loss, especially after chemotherapy. Strength training exercises help reduce muscle loss and help increase mass. Muscle mass helps burn calories, aiding in weight maintenance.
Considerations
An exercise facility may not be a fit for all breast cancer patients. This depends on your exercise abilities, level of energy and the stage of cancer and treatment. For example, if you have been in the clear for cancer for several years, investing money into a specialized facility will not benefit you much. However, if you value the emotional support offered at such programs, continuing them may be worth the investment.
Precautions
Exercise may increase your breast cancer survival rate, but should not be the only method of treatment. Follow your doctor's recommendations and seek regular check-ups. The American Cancer Society points out that for some patients, rest may be just as vital for recovery as exercise. Although exercise helps reduce fatigue, a survivor who has just undergone chemotherapy, for example, may not be up to the task of moderate exercise. Keep in mind that exercise is meant to help you and not to be a daily burden. Exercise when you are able, and consult with your physician for program recommendations.
