What exercise program is right for me?

It depends on your treatment and how you are feeling. You can work out at home, with a CHOC physical therapist or a personal trainer.

You can make the program fit your needs by changing any of three factors: frequency, intensity, or time.

It’s best to start with low-intensity, short-duration activities three days a week. As your body adjusts and gets stronger, you can gradually work a little harder and a little longer at each session. A typical program might have you do aerobic and strengthening exercise on alternate days. You might start with five- to 10-minute sessions and work up to as much as 40 minutes over 15 weeks.

Strengthening exercises will keep your muscles strong so you can perform daily chores with greater ease. Walking and other aerobic activities will increase your endurance. It may take weeks or months for some people to regain their energy. Once chemotherapy is finished, though, normal cells recover. The side effects, including fatigue, ease.

Exercise can help you take charge of your body. You can take responsibility for getting well and feeling better through regular participation. Being active, rather than passive, in the process of recovery will give you strength, courage, and confidence as your treatment continues.

If you are getting any kind of cancer treatment, or have in the past, you need to talk to your doctor to figure out an exercise plan that is safe and fun for you.