The most common type of cancer is lung cancer, according to the National Institute of Cancer. Lung cancer is the result of an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that results in tumors and compromises lung function. Because the lungs supply the body with oxygen via the blood, exercising to strengthen the lungs --- even lungs ravaged with cancer --- is beneficial.
Significance
While exercise is known to be helpful in preventing cancer, a 2009 study published by the "Journal of Thoracic Oncology" shows that exercise is also beneficial to patients already diagnosed with lung cancer. The study reported results from patients newly diagnosed with advanced, non-small cell lung cancer.
The study concluded that those who completed an exercise therapy showed improvement in lung cancer symptoms. Through exercise, you are better able to take oxygen from the lungs and deliver it to the rest of your body. Because of improved lung function, the quality of life for a lung cancer patient is likewise improved.
Types of Exercise
Exercise can be categorized simply as aerobic-based or weight-bearing training. Aerobic exercise, or physical activity that elevates heart rate and lung function, includes exercises such as jogging, cycling, swimming and walking. Weight training uses weights and repetitive movements. When weight training, start with a weight that you can comfortably lift 15 times. Exercises that develop and support the muscles surrounding the lungs include chest presses, bent-over rows or tricep extensions. Both aerobic and strength-training exercises encourage muscular strength and condition the lungs. Researchers have determined that exercise improves muscle strength and lung function in patients with chronic breathing difficulty, according to the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
Breathing Exercises
The use of breathing techniques, such as those practiced in yoga, helps bolster lung function. In its simplest form, breathing exercises include elongating, or slowing down, the inhale and the exhale. This type of exercise refines breathing and encourages deeper breathing and use of the entire lung, according to author Mara Carrico in her book, "Yoga Journal's Yoga Basics." Carrico says one benefit of improving breathing is improving your respiratory function and ability to take in more oxygen.
Considerations
While exercise can reduce your risk of developing cancer and improve your quality of living if you have lung cancer, a regular and consistent program will offer you the best results. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends performing moderate exercise activities at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, and defines moderate exercise as raising your heart rate enough to break a sweat.
Warnings
If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, consult your physician before starting an exercise program. If your doctor prescribes exercise as part of your therapy, consult with a certified trainer or coach. If you experience shortness of breath or decreased lung capacity that is not normally associated with exercise, immediately stop working out and consult your physician. Because exercise promotes increased blood flow and forces the lungs to work harder, your trainer will be able to monitor your strength and progress as well as set a safe pace for your workouts.
References
- "American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine": General Exercise Training IMproves Ventilatory and Peripheral Muscle Strength and Endurance in Chronic Airflow Limitation
- "Yoga Journal's Yoga Basics"; Mara Carrico; 2004
- National Cancer Institute: Common Cancer Types
- Journal of Thoracic Oncology: A Structured Exercise Program for Patients with Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
- "Scientific American": If a Person's Lung Size Cannot Increase, How Does Exercise Serve to Improve Lung Function?
- The American College of Sports Medicine: Physical Activity and Public Health Guidelines
