How to stay motivated to be active during chemo when exhausted?

Pick some activity and tell yourself you will do it for just three minutes but do it for five. As days go by, increase the time.

Hello Robin! As KB mentioned, it’s baby steps! A positive mindset and movement is key, start slowly and gradually increasing your activity. Myself I started with squats and leaning pushups. On shaky legs, and fatigue from the treatments I started slowly. I set some goals for myself and I told myself if I can do 3 of each today then maybe tomorrow I can do 5, I did 5, then I told myself if I can do 5 maybe tomorrow I can do 8. And so on. It’s hard especially when you don’t feel good, but trust me it works. Nutrition is another important factor eat healthy! And the more you move you will start feeling better! I have achieved some of my goals (still working on them) and even my doctors are surprised with my progress. Good luck, stay strong 💪 “Don’t Let The Bad Days Win”

Thank you

I finished chemo and was still so fatigued. My Dr said it's normal. Your body's been through a lot. It will improve, it takes time, be patient. If you walk & you're tired in 5 minutes, try to go 5 1/2 or 6. Small steps - it will get better. Happily, I'm in remission. It'll be tough to be very active in the middle of your chemo. I was pretty fatigued the 1st 2 weeks after chemo but felt much better the 3rd week. Then it was time for chemo again. Take advantage of that week you're feeling a little better. My wife would mix me a boost protein with something called benecalorie and a little half & half everyday. I had lost almost 40 pounds & she said she was trying to fatten me up again. I've been going to physical therapy to get some muscle back & improve my balance. It has helped but I don't think you can really do that until your treatment is over. I go to the gym 2-3 times a week too . I saw a mix online that claimed to improve your hydration. We bought some to try it out. It's a sugar free powder you mix in water. I was pretty doubtful, but the reviews were good. I drink 1 a day. I've only used it for a week and believe it or not, I think I'm feeling better. I don't get dehydrated so easily. It's called Nectar. Sorry this was so long.

Hi Robin. Try to fill your diet with healthy energizing foods. Beets are an excellent source of energy. Now is a good time to experiment with different vegetable juices. Good luck and God bless.

Thank you Jim and Wanda

Finding motivation during treatment can be incredibly challenging, especially when even basic activities like showering feel overwhelming. Consider starting with gentle movements like stretching in bed or seated exercises, and remember that rest is also an important part of healing - some days the most active thing might be deep breathing exercises. Many in this community have found that setting very small, achievable goals and celebrating those wins helps maintain momentum even on the toughest days.