Exercise Oncology

Exercise is safe and effective during and after most types of cancer treatment, including breast cancer. As such, it must be included as an integral part of your breast cancer care plan. Over two decades of research support a link between a physically active lifestyle and positive physiological and psychological changes in cancer survivors, which is why we emphasize exercise oncology for all patients.

Regular exercise leads to improvements in VO2, i.e., the maximum amount of oxygen your body can use during exercise, which, in turn, improves healthy blood pressure, heart and lung function, gas exchange, and blood volume. Consequently, exercising during and after cancer care improves your muscular strength, anxiety, depression, body image, emotional well-being, immunity, and overall quality of life.

• Aerobic Training: Walking, cycling, swimming, cross-training, dancing, and other aerobic exercises increase your heart rate and improve blood circulation. You should ideally do 20 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise for 3 to 5 days a week, at 40 to 60% of your heart rate reserve (HRR).
• Strength Training: Weightlifting and training with resistance balls, resistance bands, and machines can improve your muscular strength and endurance. You should ideally do 8 to 12 reps of each exercise for up to 3 sets, 2 to 3 days a week. You should complete the exercise at 40 to 60% of your heart rate reserve (HRR).
• Flexibility Training: Static stretching allows you to relax and stretch your major muscle groups, improving your strength and flexibility. You should perform each stretch for 10 to 30 seconds, 2 to 7 days a week. You should stretch to the point of mild discomfort.