Why walking is one of the best forms of exercise for cancer patients.
I am a big fan of walking!
Walking is one of the best forms of exercise you can do as a cancer patient or survivor.
Why?
There are so many reasons, so here are my top 3.
Firstly it’s free, accessible, requires no kit and is possible for anyone, of any fitness level. It’s not weather or time dependent. You can literally put on a pair of shoes, open your door and go.
Secondly, it’s the perfect ‘zone 2’ exercise. Exercising at a moderate pace for a relatively long period is amazing for building base endurance. Combined with healthy eating, it helps with weight management, muscle tone, posture and cardiovascular health. There isn’t a single organ that doesn’t benefit from a good walk!
Thirdly, and possibly most importantly, it’s good for your head. Cancer is hard! Mentally as much as physically. Time moving, time in nature, time to reflect is simply invaluable as part of the healing process.
As cancer patients, it’s critical that we move. Being physically active is the very best medicine against many cancer related side effects including fatigue and joint pains.
It may also help prevent recurrence. Being fit and meeting minimum exercise guidelines helps stop many common cancers coming back. Not just by a few % … in the case of breast cancer, exercising regularly can reduce the risk of recurrence by up to 30%
That’s HUGE!
Here are my top tips for getting going. It’s not always easy to get into the habit. So if you’re struggling with motivation, why not join a walking group or enter a walking challenge such as Steps for Cancer by @cancersupport.ch