Exercising after Breast Cancer Treatment

No matter what type of treatment you have for breast cancer, it can take a toll on both your body and emotions. The effects of the disease and treatment often cause women to become less active, more stressed, and unable to sleep well. And the worse you feel, the more inactive you tend to become. As a result, after treatment you may find that you lack the strength and stamina to continue or resume the roles and activities you carried out before your cancer diagnosis.

What can you do to gain strength and feel healthier and more like yourself again? Many women find that regular exercise can improve their fitness level as well as their mental outlook. In addition, women who undertake an exercise program can help speed their recovery from cancer. Research has shown that while breast cancer can make women feel as though their body has failed them, exercise can help them regain some control over their body and their life.

Before starting an exercise program, get a checkup from your doctor. Those who have finished treatment and have no underlying health issues or major side effects from treatment usually can follow an exercise program of their choice.

Women who are having treatment for breast cancer, however, should consult with an exercise expert and check with their doctor before proceeding. This is because many cancer therapies can weaken the body — in some cases, they can even affect the heart. If this is the case for you, you may need to follow a modified exercise routine that takes your physical condition and type of treatment into account.

Click here to learn the benefits of exercising after treatment and how to get started.