What are Some Different Types of Exercises/Activities I Can Do While I'm Recovering from Treatment?
Light/Moderate Exercise: Doctors recommend incorporating daily activities into your exercise program to keep building additional strength and stamina. Activities such as climbing stairs, walking, gardening, and playing with children can keep you active and reduce stress and fatigue. You should try to perform some of these activities in small sessions, such as for 5-10 minutes, six or seven days per week.
Moderate Exercise: Exercises that increase your heart rate such as brisk walking, swimming, or biking should be done gradually without causing any discomfort. Start with 5-minute sessions and slowly increase the time intervals when you feel comfortable. If you are currently receiving radiation treatments, be sure to check with your doctor before engaging in any water activities. Your doctor will determine if the treatment area is clear of burns or sores that could become irritated.
Moderate/Heavy Exercise: Once any fatigue has decreased and you have begun building up your strength, you may want to continue building your stamina. Combining treadmill use, bicycling, stair-climbing, and resistance training with tubing or lightweights will improve your muscle strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular functions. Try a 20-minute Fitness Plan.
