Exercise during chemotherapy
Yes, you should!
Chemotherapy (along with other systemic treatments like immunotherapy & targeted therapies) is a powerful tool to treat many cancers, but along it it comes a vast array of challenges both during treatment cycles and long after it is finished.
There is a strong body of evidence showing exercise (structured exercise), which is tailored to the individual, during chemotherapy, can help reduce and manage many of the common side effects associated with cancer and its treatment. In fact, we know those who exercise and keep active through their treatment, will experience less, and less severe side effects, than those who don’t. Not only does it help manage these side effects like fatigue and reduced physical function, but there is growing research suggesting it helps aid treatment outcomes.
Cancer-related fatigue
Exercise and physical activity is now the number one approach to help reduce fatigue relating to cancer and it’s treatment. Read more on (Exercise for Fatigue here). CRF is a frustrating and debilitating side effect of chemotherapy and other systemic treatment, and it is also the most common side effect experienced by those undergoing active treatment. Individuals can experience physical, cognitive and emotional fatigue, and it is often not proportionate to one’s activity level. We say something is always better than nothing, and the goal is to avoid physical inactivity as this often makes fatigue worse.
Muscle strength/endurance
It is really common for individuals on active treatment, to notice a decline in their physical function and muscle strength/endurance. Chemotherapy can lead to a reduction in muscle size and strength, and in combination with fatigue, may result in difficulty completing usual activities or hobbies. Functional movement and resistance-based exercise, to help maintain and if not improve muscle mass and strength is recommended.
Cardiovascular fitness
Some chemotherapy agents are ‘cardio-toxic’ meaning they can have an impact on an individual’s cardiovascular system. Good news is, the heart, like any other muscle in the body can be trained, and engaging in aerobic exercise can help preserve fitness, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease like heart failure or coronary artery disease.
Improved treatment rates
Keeping your body strong through chemotherapy can help you adhere to treatment plans. Individuals who are able to tolerate their treatments, and avoid needing to ‘skipping’ cycles or reductions in treatment dose, will have better chances of completing their prescribed treatment and this gives them the best chance of survival.
Seeing an exercise-oncology specialist is important, as we consider your full cancer history, along with any precautions (or things to watch out for!) and will tailor an exercise program specifically to you. We will make modifications to your program depending on where you are in your treatment cycle and how you are feeling.
The take away message is to avoid physical inactivity, and something is always better than none, and more is better than less.