Keeping active

The importance of exercise

Cancer and its treatments can cause physical changes such as reduced energy levels and fatigue as well as low mood and anxiety.

Keeping yourself active is an important part of looking after your health and wellbeing.

Evidence shows that simple physical activity can reduce many of the side effects of cancer treatment and also the risk of recurrence in some cancer by up to 60 per cent.

Being active before, during and after treatment can:

• Reduce tiredness and fatigue
• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Improve your mood and alleviate depression
• Help look after your heart and bones
• Help keep your weight healthy
• Improve your sleep patterns

The importance of preparation for cancer treatment – known as prehab – and active recovery programmes are now recognised by healthcare providers around the world.

Research shows that patients who undergo prehab should have improved outcomes, including better survival rates, greater tolerance to treatment, reduced post-operative complications and less time spent in hospital.

You may be a little nervous about building up your activity levels, particularly if you haven’t been active for a while. You may feel too tired or just not know where to begin.

However, being active carries fewer risks than being inactive.

Exercise positively contributes to the reduction of the secondary symptoms of cancer with the overall aim of improving your quality of life and aiding faster recovery.

Even if you are not particularly mobile or have concerns about other medical conditions, you can still exercise safely.