Comprehensive Cancer Centers outlines strategies to help people remain or become active during cancer treatments to stay healthy physically active and mentally sharp.
The team at Comprehensive Cancer Centers knows a common theme among many patients going through their cancer journey is not feeling particularly inspired to do much or be physically active. The weight of a diagnosis and the routine of treatment can leave many with the feeling that they’re waiting to get it all over to start back up with life again.
While this way of thinking is a regular occurrence for cancer patients, it doesn’t mean that there aren’t any options for breaking through the monotony and either staying the vibrant person you were before treatment or becoming a new more active you. It’s also important to be active to maintain overall health and well-being to ensure a successful treatment outcome. Patterns we fall into are difficult to break out of later, and with this in mind, Comprehensive recommends patients (and everyone else out there) break free from inactivity, boost your mood, and enhance your physical fitness. The following checklist is a great guideline for making that happen:
Recognize the Importance of Physical Activity
Understanding the benefits of physical activity can serve as a powerful motivator. Regular exercise helps improve cardiovascular health, enhance muscular strength, manage weight, reduce stress, and increase energy levels. Remind yourself of these benefits, both in the short and long term, to reinforce your commitment to staying active. Even if you can only do a little now, do that and work to build towards more later.
Set Realistic and Attainable Goals
When feeling unmotivated, set realistic and attainable goals that align with your current energy levels. Start small and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activity over time. By setting achievable goals, you can experience a sense of accomplishment and build momentum.
Find Activities You Enjoy to get Physically Active
Engaging in activities you genuinely enjoy can make exercise feel less like a chore. Experiment with various physical activities, such as dancing, swimming, cycling, hiking, or playing a sport, to find what sparks your interest. Joining a group class or participating in a team sport can also add a social aspect, making it more enjoyable and motivating.
Establish a Routine
Creating a consistent routine can help overcome the initial reluctance to be active. Set aside specific times in your schedule dedicated to physical activity, making it a non-negotiable part of your day. Treating it as a regular appointment or commitment can help build discipline and make it easier to follow through.
Break It Down
If the thought of engaging in a long workout seems daunting, break it down into smaller, manageable chunks. Aim for shorter bursts of activity throughout the day, such as three 10-minute walks or two 15-minute exercise sessions. This approach can be less overwhelming and easier to incorporate into your routine.
Try Different Timeframes
Experiment with different times of the day to find when you feel most energized and motivated to be active. Some individuals prefer morning workouts to kickstart their day, while others find evening exercise helps them unwind. Discovering your optimal timeframe can make it easier to overcome inertia and engage in physical activity.
Seek Accountability
Accountability can be a powerful tool to stay on track with your fitness goals. Find a workout buddy or enlist the support of a friend or family member who shares similar objectives. By holding each other accountable, you can motivate one another and make exercise a shared experience.
Utilize Technology and Apps to Get Physically Active
Take advantage of technology and fitness apps to help you stay active. There are numerous apps available for those with cancer that offer guided workouts, track your progress, provide reminders, and offer motivational content. These tools can provide structure and assistance when you lack motivation.
Embrace Variety
Monotony can be a major obstacle to staying active when you’re not in the mood. Incorporate variety into your workouts to keep things interesting and prevent boredom. Alternate between different exercises, try new activities, or explore different environments like parks, trails, or fitness classes to keep your routine fresh and exciting.
Focus on Non-Exercise Physical Activity
Physical activity doesn’t have to be limited to formal workouts. Engaging in non-exercise physical activities throughout the day can also contribute to an active lifestyle. Incorporate activities like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking or biking to nearby destinations, gardening, or playing with children or pets. These activities can accumulate and contribute to your overall physical activity levels.
Maintaining an physically active lifestyle is essential for physical and mental well-being, even when motivation is lacking. By employing strategies such as recognizing the benefits of physical activity, setting realistic goals, finding enjoyable activities, establishing a routine, breaking down workouts, seeking accountability, utilizing technology, embracing variety, and focusing on non-exercise physical activity, you can overcome the challenge of inactivity. Remember, even small steps and incremental progress can lead to significant long-term benefits. Stay committed and persistent, and you will discover the rewards of an active lifestyle.
Comprehensive Cancer Can Help
To schedule an appointment with a physician at Comprehensive Cancer Centers, call 702-952-3350. For anyone looking for a second opinions regarding clinical research options at Comprehensive Cancer Centers, a list of active research options can be found here (LINK 4).
The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
