WHY is exercise so important for cancer survivors?
Embracing the gym. It doesn’t come naturally to me!
Why is exercise so important for cancer patients and survivors?
1. It decreases the side effects of cancer treatment. Especially fatigue (yes I know it doesn’t make sense).
2. It reduces the risk of recurrence, especially breast cancer, by a huge % … there are lots of studies on this. Some say by up to 40% … that’s more than any pill! For me, this is one of my biggest reasons to keep moving.
3. It helps maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases your chance of developing many common cancers.
4. Only 5-10% of cancers are genetic. Which means that lifestyle - including exercise - plays a part in the rest. Being sedentary is one of the biggest diseases of our time.
5. It probably helps make chemotherapy work better. Medical thinking has changed on this … makes sense if your blood is pumping those chemicals into every cell.
6. Being strong helps prevent osteoporosis, a common side effect of hormone therapy. And practicing balance helps prevent falls - and therefore fractures.
7. Being fit now helps prevent cardiovascular disease in the future - another possible side effect of chemo and radiotherapy.
8. It helps promote sleep.
9. It helps reduce stress.
10. It FEELS GOOD and it’s great for your mental health!
I am on a mission to future proof myself for maximum future fun! And that means being strong and fit. Drop me a line if you’re not sure where to start. I’d love to help. Xx