Before treatment

If you’ve just had a diagnosis of cancer, you may feel anxious and worried. How will you cope with treatment? What will your recovery be like?

Research shows that the fitter you are, the faster you’ll recover and the better the outcomes for your surgery and treatment. Being able to withstand treatment – especially if you’re facing breast, gynaecological or bowel surgery – will help your physical recovery and could prevent complications.

However, many people find that the mental benefits associated with exercise are the most important, to help with stress and anxiety in the waiting time before treatment. They give them a sense of power when everything seems to be out of control, plus confidence going into treatment.

Take acTion:

Although it may seem counterintuitive when you’ve just received a cancer diagnosis, exercise can be very beneficial – especially for your mental wellbeing. You won’t have much time between diagnosis and treatment, but just do what you can – even if you don’t really feel like it.

Many people enjoy the freedom of being outdoors and just getting out for a brisk walk for 30-45 minutes can be the best thing to do. If you’re having abdominal surgery, try some gentle Pilates-style exercises to strengthen your stomach and core muscles before your operation.

WhaT To WaTch:

Check with your doctor about what’s right for you, depending on your diagnosis. If you have severe pain, fever, dizziness or any other major symptoms such as a bowel obstruction, then exercise may not be appropriate for you at this stage.