Cancer survivors may get various impacts in many areas of their physical being after the treatments. There are numbers of exercises the cancer patients can do according to researchers at University of Rochester Medical Center.
Getting started with exercise for cancer survivors
As every patient has different condition, it is necessary to know about your physical condition before doing any exercise for cancer survivors.
Researchers suggest finding out bone density, muscle flexibility, muscular strength, neurological function and immune function obtained from a healthcare service. And since one exercise does not fit for all, the medical records will help set a standard as to what kind of exercise for cancer survivor is needed.
How exercises help cancer survivors and cancer patients during treatment
When doing regular exercises, cancer patients and survivor can improve physical abilities that might decline during the treatment. Specific exercises help to lower disease risks, lessen fatigue symptoms, improve blood flow and even self-esteem, American Cancer Society confirmed.
Exercise for cancer survivor tips: Using SMART goals
Cancer patients should consider applying SMART goals approach when it comes to exercises.
Scientists at UR Medical Center suggest the exercise for cancer survivors to be:
- Specific
Choose a physical exercise method that meets your specific needs. For instance, improving cardiopulmonary health or decreasing nausea symptoms.
- Measurable
Every exercise for cancer survivor has to be track-able using device such as smartphone or smartwatch. It will be helpful to statistically measure the progress and result.
- Achievable
It is crucial to record every progress of your physical health. And you do not need to force yourself to exercise rigorously, rather, starting off with the smallest goal gradually increase it to ensure that the long term goal is achievable.
- Realistic
Be realistic on how many hours you decide to have an exercise. Whether it is yoga or morning jog, make sure that you have a specific training approach supervised by a professional. Discuss your limitations to them so you can sort through which exercises you need to achieve your health goals.
- Timely
Not only that cancer survivors need to measure their physical progress but also the time they spend on daily basis to exercise. Once you meet a certain level, you should evaluate and adjust your timing for the next achievable goal.
Always keep physical activities easy and fun
Researchers suggest cancer patients not to go above the moderate level when exercising. Many light physical activities are proven to reduce stress and help patients to stay relaxed. Cancer survivors can also get active by doing fun activities such as riding a bike, mowing the lawn, or taking a walk in the park.
Do you have any exercise for cancer survivors that you might want to share?
