Exercise for Those with Cancer: 5 Things To Know

We all know that exercise has many benefits, both physical and psychological. But what are the benefits before, during, and after cancer treatment? Is it safe to exercise before and after cancer treatment? How can you incorporate exercise into your wellness plan?

# 1 Benefits of exercise for people with cancer.

Exercise is beneficial for everyone, including those with cancer. Knowing the benefits can help you stay motivated to move. Exercise has been shown to improve:

• Cardiovascular fitness.
• Strength.
• Balance.
• Body composition.
• Energy.
• Emotional well-being.

# 2 Talk with your doctor.

Before you begin an exercise program, it’s important to talk with your doctor about what exercises are safe for you. You can also ask about:

• Limitations: Ask about any limitations, such as weight restrictions after surgery or restrictions for maximum heart rate during exercise.
• Exercises to avoid: Ask about precautions or things to avoid, such as swimming in public pools while on chemotherapy.
• Risks: Ask if you are at risk for bone fractures and if so, choose gentler exercises with less risk for falls.

# 3 Find exercise providers who have received training to work with people with cancer.

Your doctor can provide guidance and refer you to a specialist, such as a physical therapist or a certified exercise professional. You may also benefit from programs specifically designed for people with cancer. For instance, the ProMedica Cancer Institute, in conjunction with ProMedica ForeverFit, offers programs for cancer patients and survivors.

Survivor Yoga

Free. Group yoga class, 3 times per week. No referral needed.
Located at ForeverFit at ProMedica Wildwood Orthopaedic and Spine Hospital

Cancer Wellness: Foundations in Fitness

Free. 8-week exercise program, 2 sessions per week. Provider referral needed.
Located at ForeverFit at ProMedica Wildwood Orthopaedic and Spine Hospital

Cancer Wellness: Foundations in Fitness Maintenance Program

$ 45 per month, two sessions per week. Designed for those who have completed the Foundations in Fitness Program.
Located at ForeverFit at ProMedica Wildwood Orthopaedic and Spine Hospital

Cancer Wellness: Move to Heal

Free. Group exercise program. Twice a week. Gentle conditioning and stretching. No referral needed.
Perrysburg Levis Commons Cancer Center

# 4 Set goals and develop a plan.

Start slowly and listen to your body. There will be days when your energy level is low, so adjust how long and how hard you exercise. Keep it simple: Move more and be inactive less; strengthen and stretch your muscles.

Having a plan with goals can help you exercise at the right pace.

• Set a goal of slowly reaching 150 minutes of exercise per week.
• Spread that 150 minutes over multiple days, such as 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
• If 30 minutes is too difficult, try 10 minutes of exercise in the morning, 10 minutes after lunch, and 10 minutes in the evening.
• Stop if you feel dizzy, have pain or any other concerning symptoms.

# 5 Start slow and enjoy!

Exercise can be a great way to celebrate yourself and connect with other people. Start slow and find resources for people with cancer. Here are a couple to get you started:

• Survivorship Care for Healthy Living (2024). The National Comprehensive Cancer Network.
• For more information about ProMedica exercise programs for people with cancer, contact Lisa.HartkopfSmith@promedica.org or Nicole.Mason@promedica.org