CommunitiesMental Health and MindfulnessHow to exercise safely while going through cancer treatment?

How to exercise safely while going through cancer treatment?

J.

Community Member

23 days ago

Exercising with cancer

6 comments
Comment
J.

Community Member

23 days ago

I used to be a personal trainer NASM certified and everything. I was diagnosed with CLL leukemia in 2019 and I really let myself go physically. The pandemic made Doordash a habit and I returned to a mostly sedentary job in 2021. Anyway, I'm trying to get back into decent condition. I was prescribed Calquence to treat the CLL and my current hemotologist/ oncologist has quartered the dosage I was taking. According to her, the drug is making my blood work read within normal range. I'm about 30-40 pounds overweight. I started exercising regularly in April. Anyways, I signed up for a fitness class in my local gym about three weeks ago. I figured that the class structure would help me with exercise. To make a long story short, I nearly blacked out during the class this morning. I'm scared right now because no one is really giving me practical guidance in this area. My primary doctor encouraged exercise and I pushed myself a little too hard. Has anyone else experienced anything similar to this? Exercising with cancer? Any takers?

TB

Community Member

22 days ago

Maybe you could start out walking in the park breathing in the fresh at your own pace. I have a senior pug and I thank God for her because she needs the exercise as well and she turned out to be a great motivator for me. When fatigue hits, I sit on a bench until it pass and continue walking. What ever you do, just one step at a time! Good luck to you.

1
CA

Community Member

22 days ago

Exercise during cancer treatment can be beneficial for both physical and mental well-being, but it's essential to work closely with your healthcare team to create a safe plan that fits your specific situation and treatment schedule. Many find that gentle activities like walking, stretching, or light strength training can help manage fatigue and boost mood, though what works best varies greatly from person to person. Consider asking your oncologist or treatment team about connecting with a physical therapist who specializes in cancer care - they can help design an exercise routine that takes into account your treatment type, energy levels, and any side effects you might be experiencing.

1
J.

Community Member

22 days ago

AI go away, you're not helping!

MM

Community Member

12 days ago

I like the suggestion to start walking at your own pace. I have CML. I was walking more than now earlier this year. Good luck

1
RR

Community Member

8 days ago

J. Start slow and easy, steadily increasing your routine. Recovery is a marathon. Pushing yourself is counter productive. As a PT you probably use to tell your clients this. Practice your own advice, you know what to do, don’t rush it! 💪 Good luck bro, we’re all in this fight! 🙏

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