HEALTH AND WELLNESS: How to Stay Active While You Have Cancer or Other Illness'
Staying active while you have cancer can be safe and very beneficial, as long as activity is adjusted to your condition, treatment, and energy level. Here’s how exercise helps and how to do it safely:
Benefits of staying active during cancer
1. Reduces fatigue Cancer-related fatigue is common, and gentle physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce it.
2. Maintains strength and mobility Exercise helps prevent muscle loss, joint stiffness, and balance problems, especially during long periods of treatment or rest.
3. Improves mood and mental health Physical activity can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress, while improving confidence and overall quality of life.
4. Supports treatment tolerance and recovery People who stay active often tolerate treatments better and may recover faster after surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
5. Boosts immune function Light to moderate activity supports immune health, which is especially important during treatment.
6. Improves sleep and appetite Regular movement can help regulate sleep patterns and stimulate appetite.
Safe ways to stay active during cancer
Always check with your healthcare team first, especially if you have low blood counts, bone involvement, neuropathy, or surgical restrictions.
Good activity options include:
Walking (short, frequent walks are great)
Gentle stretching or yoga
Light strength training with resistance bands
Chair exercises
Swimming or water aerobics (if approved)
Breathing and relaxation exercises
Tips for exercising safely
Listen to your body — rest when needed
Start slow and build gradually
Break activity into short sessions (5–10 minutes)
Stay hydrated
Avoid public gyms if your immune system is weakened
Stop exercise if you feel dizzy, short of breath, or have pain
When to avoid exercise temporarily
Fever or infection
Severe anemia or low platelet counts
Uncontrolled pain
Immediately after surgery (until cleared)
Bottom line
You don’t need intense workouts — any movement counts. Even gentle, regular activity can help you feel stronger, more energized, and more in control during cancer treatment.
