If you are having treatment or have recently finished treatment it is fine to keep exercising or start exercising again. The type and amount you do may be different now than before your diagnosis. But that is ok. Any exercise/physical activity is better than none. Build it up gradually. It is important to remember that you don’t always have to do more than yesterday, there will be days when you have more energy than others. Find activities you enjoy and build up your levels over time.
People with certain types of cancer, or having particular treatments might need to avoid some types of exercise. There are some situations where you need to take extra care;
Cancer affecting your bones
If you have cancer affecting your bones, you might be at risk of breaking a bone or a fracture. You should avoid putting too much stress and strain on the affected areas. Swimming, exercising in water and yoga/pilates is an excellent way of exercising without adding stress or pressure to bones.
Low immunity
Those with lower immune systems due to treatment should try to avoid exercising in public gyms. Ask your consultant when it is safe to start exercising in the gym with other people, although doesn’t mean that you cannot be active in other ways.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Some people experience loss of sensation or the feelings of pins and needles in their hands and feet during cancer treatment. Exercises you can still do while experiencing this could be using a stationary bike or some weight bearing exercises like yoga/pilates.
After certain types of surgery
After certain types of surgery, you may have to wait a little bit of time before exercising like you used to although it is best to consult with your doctor or specialist nurse about the time frame for exercising or they may be able to provide approved exercises for you.
