By Holly Boss
Exercise of moderate to high intensity has been shown to have many benefits for cancer survivors, as well as for those undergoing treatment. These benefits include battling physical and mental fatigue, depression, and anxiety and improving cardiovascular fitness, body composition, motivation, and quality of life. Evidence of moderate intensity training has been shown to provide a significant overall mortality risk reduction of up to 50% in prostate cancer survivors and 27% in breast cancer survivors. The risk reduction further improves to 95% in breast cancer survivors participating in high intensity training (2.25 mile run daily).
Different types of cancer affect the body in distinctive ways; therefore, frequency, intensity, and type of exercise that best suits this population cannot not be defined across the board. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that survivors follow the Department of Health and Human Services general physical activity guidelines: a minimum 30 minutes per day 5 times per week of moderate intensity training or 20 minutes per day 3 times per week of high intensity training, including resistance training at least twice weekly. Greater frequency of high intensity training should occur only with the specific approval of the treating physician, as specific cancers each carry their own unique considerations.
Strength training is a crucial part of a post-diagnosis exercise routine. Regular resistance training has been shown to positively impact both strength and bone mass, decreasing the likelihood of osteoporosis and fractures. This risk reduction is particularly important when faced with the demineralizing effects of cancer treatments. The National Osteoporosis Foundation states that 55% of men and women over 50 have low bone mass, placing this group of cancer survivors at an even higher risk. Strength training also improves balance, coordination, and body composition, which can decrease the risk of falls. Strength training is recommended b the American College of Sports Medicine at least twice weekly for survivors and those currently in treatment. Strength training should target large muscle groups. However, to prevent over-stressing of joints and soft tissue only add strength training when active mobility of the area to be strengthened is normal.
Those currently undergoing cancer treatment have special considerations. Cancer treatment can compromise the immune system, so gyms should be avoided during treatment. Chemotherapy can cause peripheral neuropathy, which may decrease balance and increase the risk of falls. A program with weight machines and/or resistance bands may be preferable to free weights for individuals with these symptoms. Additionally, stationary cycling will be safer for these individuals than treadmill or outdoor running. High and moderate intensity exercise should be deferred when anemic or even if more fatigued than usual.
A diagnosis of cancer is not necessarily the end of the road when it comes to running, either. Cancer survivors have successfully competed in marathons and triathlons, even if it meant making some changes to their training regimens and race-day strategies. All exercise programs should be approved by the treating physician and accompanied by a proper diet, as advised by a dietician.
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Holly Boss, MS, PT, Cert. MDT is a Physical Therapist at ATI Physical Therapy. When not working with clients, Holly can be found in her local gym, running (slowly) down the road, or on the sidelines or backstage at her children’s soccer games and dance competitions.
