Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. There are currently over 200 types of cancer affecting all systems of the human body. Physical inactivity also has a strong association with the most prevalent forms of cancer (Moore, G., Durstine, J. L., Painter, P., 2016).
Forty percent of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Earlier detection of cancer and improved treatments mean that there are more cancer survivors today than any other time.
Exercise benefits:
- Helps decrease fatigue, the most common side effect of cancer treatment
- Improves symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as improves sleep
- Helps maintain or improve physical function
- Improves immune system, appetite, muscle strength and range of motion
Exercise guidelines:
- Refrain from recommending aquatic exercise for individuals who have exposed skin and recently completed radiation or are recovering from surgery.
- Encourage participants who may experience a low red or white blood cell count to consult their health care provider before exercising.
- In the case of a fever, extreme fatigue or electrolyte imbalance, exercise is not recommended until symptoms have subsided.
- Warning signs to watch for include ankle edema, weight gain, shortness of breath at rest or with limited activity, and dizziness.
- Encourage exercise at a low to moderate level and avoid the use of heavy weights. If a participant has bone cancer, be mindful of osteoporosis.
- If a participant is taking blood-thinning medications be aware that these can cause increased bruising and bleeding; therefore, avoid activities that increase the risk of falls. Encourage participants to use the chair for standing support (Bryant, C. X., & Green, D. J., 2010).
- Lymphedema is a chronic condition caused by lymphatic fluid accumulating in the tissues. It may occur any time after treatment for breast cancer, particularly following mastectomy and lymph node removal. Lymphedema results in swelling, pain, decreased mobility, susceptibility to recurrent infections and more (Manahan, M., 2022). It’s best to adjust exercise and use caution if any of these symptoms appear.
SilverSneakers class recommendations:
- Exercises that provide a light- to moderate-intensity exercise, and improve balance are beneficial for individuals with cancer.
- SilverSneakers Classic, SilverSneakers Yoga, SilverSneakers Stability® and EnerChi provide these options. A chair is provided in these classes for a participant to utilize a seated position, if needed.
Instructor tips for persons recovering from cancer:
- Encourage participants to progress gradually and add resistance or intensity within comfort levels.
- Remind participants to pace themselves. Bouts of fatigue may compromise a workout following radiation and/or chemotherapy. Encourage participants to rest whenever needed during a group exercise class.
- Be sure participants drink water before, during and after exercise.
- Create a safe environment with modifications and options for participants.
- Encourage participants to follow their physician’s directives regarding all surgical procedures. Some cancer medications and treatments cause side effects. Participants should talk with their physician for specific precautions.
- A side effect of treatment can be numbness in the feet. Encourage participants to use the chair for standing support or remain seated if this occurs.