Many know the benefits of regular exercise: improved cardiovascular endurance, lower blood pressure, reduced depression and anxiety, and improved self-esteem and body image, just to name a few. Researchers are learning that physical activity can also affect the risk of cancer. Physically active women have up to a 40 percent reduced risk of developing breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American women. About one woman out of every eight (12.6 percent of women) will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.

Not only does exercise play a role in preventing different forms of cancer, but physical activity can also help aid in recovery from cancer treatments. It is the belief of many health professionals, fitness professionals, and physically active cancer survivors that exercise (in moderate levels) allows the organ systems to adapt positively and improve metabolic efficiency, allowing for more intensive cancer treatments, fewer side effects, and improved sleep patterns.

Cancer treatments can vary, depending on the type and stage of cancer as well as the age and medical history of the individual. Treatments may include surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation, or a combination of these therapies. All of these treatments have side effects, some which make the patient want to do anything but be physically active. Breast cancer surgery usually results in decreased upper body strength and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder and arm. Side effects from treatments frequently include nausea, pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and weight gain.

Exercise is a complementary treatment for breast cancer patients and survivors. At LifeWise Fitness Center, we will perform an initial Health and Fitness Assessment to better understand the exact medical history of the member with breast cancer. Women with breast cancer can perform the same Health and Fitness Assessment as other members with a few modifications. The physical components of a typical breast cancer rehabilitative assessment would include measurements/monitoring of resting blood pressure and heart rate, body composition, aerobic capacity, strength and range of motion. Non-physical components might include caloric evaluation and nutritional analysis, a specific injury/rehabilitative profile, individualized goal setting, and realistic expectations.

Aerobic, resistance, and flexibility exercises would be incorporated into the member's exercise plan. These exercises can be performed in the LifeWise Pavilion, outside in a park, or at the member's home. Many breast cancer survivors enjoy exercising in a group with other breast cancer survivors. Following a systematic and progressive plan will help ensure efficiency of recovery with a decreased risk of setbacks from unnecessary injury or psychological burnout. Early progression usually begins with using no external resistance. The member uses her body weight as resistance. Once the member can manipulate her body weight effectively, we would proceed to using some form of external resistance such as machines or resistance bands.

The cardiovascular aspect of recovering from cancer treatments is often overlooked. Increasing cardiovascular capabilities can have a pronounced positive effect on energy levels and overall mental wellbeing. It is important that the progression of intensity and duration of the cardiovascular exercise be closely monitored to ensure efficient recovery. The intensity of exercise can be monitored by keeping a close watch on the heart rate. Heart rate monitors with a chest strap and watch are an easy and effective way to do this. Duration of exercise has been seen as a more effective way to exercise than going for a pre-determined distance. A typical training day might call for the member to keep her heart rate between 130 and 150 beats per minute for 30 to 45 minutes. The way this would be achieved would be up to the individual, whether it is by riding a bicycle, walking a dog outside, or using a stationary piece of exercise equipment.

Exercising is a safe and effective way for women with breast cancer to help themselves recover from treatments. When consistently participating in a well-designed exercise plan, great results can be achieved.