31 July 2011

The Benefit of Fitness to Cancer Patients and Survivors

The Benefit of Fitness to Cancer Patients and Survivors

Surviving Cancer
If you or a loved one have cancer, the experience can be very daunting. However, surviving cancer and cancer treatments are major accomplishments. One of the biggest aspects to cancer survival and prevention is exercise. Exercise can help you maintain your long-term health and prevent cancers such as
breast cancer, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. There are many benefits to exercises and there is evidence that exercise and a healthy diet can help combat this deadly disease.

The Role of Exercise
It's no wonder that exercise can improve your metabolism and weight control. However, there are many studies that suggest physical exercise may contribute to a reduced risk of cancer. With the many cancer treatment risks, it is in your best interest to stay in healthy shape before and after a diagnosis of cancer. For example, there are women who have breast cancer and show a longer life expectancy because of exercise. Not only does exercise give physical benefits, but you can also bring up self-confidence and improve your mood as well.

How to Exercise after Cancer Treatment?
The American Cancer Society recommends performing a half an hour to an hour of moderate physical activity for the general population. Exercise has the ability to reduce the risk of many illnesses and the effect will be even better for cancer patients. Even the different types of exercise can help you improve your health. Aerobic exercises help you lose weight and reduce the risk of heart attack and diabetes. Resistance training can improve muscle mass and gain weight. Stretching exercises help a person improve mobility and it will be great for older individuals to reduce the risk of falls. With any exercise program, it's important to ask your regular physician to see what exercises are right for you.

Fitness for Cancer Survivors
After difficult cancer treatment, it may be difficult to start exercising. If you have not been active before cancer treatment, it may be a good idea to set small goals and staying active in other ways. One could walk instead of drive, going up the stairs instead of taking the elevator, and going for walks in the morning are all ways to improve your health to keep cancer away.

By: David Haas