Is exercise good for cancer?

Research shows exercise is beneficial both during & after cancer treatment.

The American Cancer Society recommends that people undergoing cancer treatment and/or cancer survivors should maintain consistent physical activity. Cancer and cancer-related treatments can cause various physical problems that may include pain, weakness, balance issues, numbness, swelling, and difficulty with walking or moving.

Exercise is both safe and recommended for cancer survivors, and should be considered an integral role in one’s long term recovery. An exercise program ought to be individualized and carried out in coordination with the medical care team. Many cancer survivors significantly decrease their activity levels both during and after treatment.

Benefits of exercise during cancer treatment

• decreases symptoms

• reduces severity of side effects

• improves recovery time after surgery with fewer complications

• eases anxiety & depression

• combats chronic fatigue

Impact of exercise on your body systems

Exercise boosts the following in each body system…

Musculoskeletal system: muscle tissue & growth, metabolism, bone density & strength

Neurological System: memory & cognition, stress reduction, oxygen return to the brain

Gastrointestinal (GI) System: appetite & nutrient uptake

Immune System: improves the body’s ability to fight infection