Strength Training With Cancer
by Jackie Clark
Many studies show that there are certain measures that cancer patients can take to better their health. One research panel of 13 cancer and fitness experts found that exercise or any type of other activity is a very crucial aspect of recovery for cancer patients.
Of course, the types of exercises that patients perform will largely depend on the type of cancer they have. For example, a woman with breast cancer may have to avoid exercises that can potentially harm her shoulders or upper-back. Just the same, a patient with mesothelioma may have to avoid heavy strength training, particularly exercises that focus on the chest. Obviously, a mesothelioma prognosis and a breast cancer prognosis require different levels of attention. Regardless, fitness and strength training benefit all types of cancer patients, no matter what stage they are in.
Why is exercise so important?
Simply put, exercise helps the body in a few different ways. First, strength training breaks down muscular tissues. When the tissues repair themselves, they become much stronger. This also helps the body produce and retain more energy, helping to improve the patient's quality of life.
Second, by staying active, the body's important functions, such as the immune system and respiratory system, are strengthened, allowing them to perform at maximum efficiency.
Third, exercise helps purge harmful poisons, metals and other contents from the body via sweat glands and improved digestive functions. Detoxification is important for cancer patients who are already negatively affected from chemotherapy, surgery and radiation treatment. Though these treatments are effective for killing cancer cells, they also destroy other healthy tissues and cells.
Safety measures
Many people do not consider safety procedures before performing an exercise routine. However, cancer patients must be very careful before attempting any physical therapy. Only under the supervision or experts should cancer patients develop an exercise routine as part of their therapy program. However, many cancer clinics already have established strength training therapy programs for their patients, thus removing any fear or inhibition associated with exercising after treatment.
Conclusion
Whether you have cancer or someone you know has cancer, physical therapy and strength training will greatly help. This article also explains why strength training is important for a cancer patient's health.
about Jackie Clark:
Jackie joined the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance in 2009 as research assistant after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in fitness and nutrition. Jackie’s experience in technical and medical research has allowed her to assist in the development of medical content and outreach efforts, with specializations in alternative care, cancer support programs, and social media campaigns. She can be reached at [email protected]
For information about Bob Youngs, an American powerlifter who has been fighting Leukemia:
Blog: Live Strong for Bob Youngs:
http://bobyoungs.blogspot.com/
Training Log at EliteFTS:
http://asp.elitefts.net/qa/training-logs.asp?tid=61&__N=Bob