Research has found exercise during cancer treatment is safe and vastly improves your overall health and quality of life. Strength training can increase muscle and bone strength in both cancer patients and survivors. Learn about strength training for cancer patients, and discover which exercises are right for you.
Cancer-fighting Exercises: Strength Training
Benefits of strength training for cancer patients
Men and women of all ages can benefit from strength training – even patients who are going through cancer treatment. Cancer patients need to consult a doctor before beginning to strength train, especially if they have not exercised in a long time. Strength training for 20 to 30 minutes twice a week results in:
● Improved weight control
● Increased muscle mass
● More flexible joints
● Stronger bones and muscles
Strength training for cancer patients is essential, especially during treatment when they might experience a reduction in muscle mass. Increased muscle and bone strength help cancer patients carry out everyday tasks. Exercises such as strength training and cardio have been found to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
The link between exercise and cancer recurrence
Studies show exercising regularly reduces anxiety, depression, nausea, and fatigue, while increasing self-esteem, mood and quality of life. These benefits can be achieved through moderate exercise and strength training is the best way to start.
Cancer survivors should partake in daily exercise to help avoid inactivity and return to their normal daily activities. The American Cancer Society recommends survivors strength train at least two days a week and aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.
Easy exercise program for cancer patients
Experts say strength training once or twice a week helps patients feel stronger in just a few sessions. The American Heart Association suggests strength training twice a week to achieve increased muscle and bone strength. The wide-array of benefits of strength training can be enjoyed through resistance bands, free weights (barbells and dumbbells), weight machines, and most importantly, no equipment at all.
Exercise helps cancer patients recover from surgery and treatment. Strength training during chemotherapy is safe and recommended as long as exercises don’t cause pain or shortness of breath. Cancer patients are advised to avoid gyms and fitness center if they are at risk of infection.
You can get started with a strength training at home without the use of equipment. Simple at home exercises to increase strength and resistance include:
● Abdominal crunches and sit-ups
● Lunges
● Pushups
● Squats
● Stepping exercises
Resistance bands can be added to increase resistance to arm and leg curls, kicks, and squats. Fitness experts recommend an exercise with 8 to 12 repetitions is enough to work out the targeted muscle group. Start slowly and gradually adjust resistance and weight to your comfort.
Ask your doctor about your cancer and exercise guidelines before starting any exercise program. Additionally, consult a fitness professional to learn the correct way to complete each exercise to avoid injury.
Build Strength with Comprehensive
At Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, our team is proud to provide cancer patients with the best tools and resources to help them understand cancer and treatment. If you’re unable to start an intense strength training workout program, contact us to learn more about our cancer patient resources.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, call 702-952-3350 to schedule an appointment today.