Studies show that women diagnosed with early breast cancer have an improved quality of life, decreased fatigue and improved fitness in as little as 12 weeks of following an exercise program, three times a week. Fitting exercise into your daily routine is the easiest and best way to ensure that you continue your workouts. Try not to do the same exercises week after week though. The more you vary your exercise regime the more likely you are to stick with it.
Keep in mind that it's always important to speak with your doctor before starting or altering an exercise program.
Some suggestions for staying fit:
Take a brisk walk around the neighborhood. Carry some hand weights so that you work your lower body as well as your upper body.
Go swimming.
Play tennis with a friend.
Go to a yoga class.
Hiking is a great way to get exercise and explore the outdoors.
Ride a bike.
Join a gym.
Park the car in a spot that requires you to walk a greater distance than you normally would.
Take the stairs rather than the elevator at the office.
The possibilities are endless.
BreastCancer.org. Healing Strategies During and After Breast Cancer Treatment. p.1,
para 9. www.breastcancer.org/cmty_trans_2003_05.html. Accessed July 16, 2004.
