Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Fitness and beating cancer

David Haas is a cancer survivor and awareness program advocate at the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. He's asked to post a guest blog on the benefits of fitness on coping with cancer. Here's his article.

Fitness Advantages Over Fighting Cancer

Cancer is a highly debilitating disease, on many different levels. Not only does the cancer patient suffer physically, but another risk is that of psychological suffering. Many cancer patients go on to receive psychological therapy to help deal with the psychological aspects of facing the disease. Surviving cancer and dealing with the treatments are great accomplishments, and many patient's new priority in life is to keep the cancer at bay. The latest medical research studies support physical exercise as way to do this. Multiple studies show that after diagnosis, higher levels of exercise lead to a lower chance of the cancer recurring as well as longer life span.


When it comes to physical health, a cancer patient often feels like they are not in control of their own body. This is a terrible feeling, and can lead to some serious psychological consequences. One of the best ways to fight this feeling of loss of control is to enter into a committed physical exercise routine. The benefits are instantaneous, and the effects are far reaching. Not only is physical fitness improved, but psychological fitness benefits as well. This can benefit someone going through any type of cancer whether it is pancreatic cancer or rare mesothelioma.


There are many different kinds of exercise and ways to exercise. Many people view exercise as boring or tedious. It does not have to be this way, and in fact, should not be this way! Cancer patients especially should realize that by engaging in fun, physical exercises, they are helping their health and helping to fight the cancer away proactively. Exercise makes you stronger physically - not only will you notice an increase in your muscular strength and flexibility, but an increase in stamina and endurance. Exercise improves the strength of your heart and its circulation, lessening the risks for arterial and circulation problems. Exercise leads to weight loss and leaner body mass with more toned muscles.


Many people do not realize it, but exercise also is great for improving mood. Not only does it get the blood flowing to your brain, bringing fresh oxygen and improving its function, but also it gets you breathing harder. Taking deep breaths, in addition to the excellent worn out feeling you get from a good work out, has many calming effects. Feeling more in shape means that you will be more confident. Exercise also reduces fatigue. As you build up stamina and endurance, you will have more energy reserves to draw on regularly. The benefits are truly many, and there is no better time to get in shape than now. Your body will thank you for it!