Movement and physical activity: powerful allies in the fight against cancer
A cancer diagnosis brings with it a series of challenges, both physical and emotional. In this context, movement and physical activity prove to be powerful allies, significantly contributing to improving the quality of life of oncology patients.
This article explores the essential benefits of physical activity during and after cancer treatment, offering practical advice and recommendations tailored to your needs.
The benefits of movement and physical activity during oncology treatment
- Reduce fatigue: Fatigue is a common side effect of cancer treatment. Moderate physical activity can help combat this condition by increasing energy levels and improving overall well-being.
- Maintaining muscle mass: Cancer treatments can lead to muscle loss. Strength exercises, tailored to each patient, help maintain and even increase muscle mass, essential for strength and mobility.
- Improving mood: physical activity releases endorphins, hormones that combat stress and anxiety, contributing to a positive mood.
- Reducing treatment side effects: Movement can reduce treatment side effects, such as nausea, constipation, and pain.
- Improving sleep: regular physical activity contributes to more restful sleep, essential for recovery.
Types of physical activities recommended during oncology treatment
- Aerobic exercise: walking, swimming, cycling or dancing are activities that improve cardiovascular function and lung capacity.
- Strength exercises: Lifting light weights, using resistance bands, or exercising with your own weight help maintain muscle mass.
- Flexibility exercises: yoga, pilates or stretching improve flexibility and joint mobility.
- Balance exercises: Tai Chi or single-leg exercises help maintain balance and prevent falls.
The benefits of movement and physical activity after oncology treatment
- Recovery of strength and energy: after completing treatment, physical activity helps to recover strength and energy, gradually returning to daily activities.
- Reducing the risk of recurrence: Recent studies show that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of recurrence in certain types of cancer.
- Improve bone health: Some cancer treatments can affect bone density. Low-impact exercise, such as walking or climbing stairs, helps maintain bone health.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of complications and improving overall well-being.
- Improving quality of life: physical activity contributes to a general state of well-being, both physical and emotional, improving the quality of life.
Recommendations for a safe and effective physical activity program
- Consult your oncologist: before starting any physical activity program, it is essential to talk to your oncologist.
- Start gradually: start with light activities and gradually increase their intensity and duration.
- Listen to your body: rest when you feel the need and don't push your limits.
- Hydrate properly: drink water before, during and after physical activity.
- Choose enjoyable activities: opt for activities that you enjoy to maintain motivation.
- Exercise with a specialist: Work with a physical therapist or oncology rehabilitation specialist to create a personalized exercise plan.
Exercise and physical activity are essential components of a healthy lifestyle, especially during and after medical treatments. Their benefits are numerous, contributing to a faster recovery and an improved quality of life. Regardless of the type of treatment you are undergoing, integrating physical activity into your daily routine can make a significant difference.
Don't delay starting a physical activity program . Every step counts on your path to a healthier, more active life. Consult with the specialists at Elytis to receive personalized guidance and start an exercise program tailored to your needs .
Latest medical review:
13.06.2025 , Dr. Cristina Pruteanu – Primary Physician Oncology
References:
- "Exercise guidelines for people with cancer". Cancer Research UK , 2023.
- "Physical Activity and Cancer". CDC , 2024.