Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Guest Blogger David Haas folks!

Please read David's article on the importance of fitness when dealing with Cancer. I know from experience that it makes all the difference in the world. Di is happy and healthy, mental and physical, with the help of a good work out program. It's serious business people. Check some of his other great work at http://haasblaag.blogspot.com/

Fitness for Cancer Patients

When you are first diagnosed with cancer, you may be tempted to just curl up in bed and stay there until the treatment is over. That is the exact opposite of what most cancer patients should do. Staying fit is an important part of caring for your physical as well as mental well being. Both your body and your mind need to be in the best shape possible to fight cancer.

Regular exercise is an important part of mental health. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control, physical fitness can reduce your chances of experiencing clinical depression and it may help combat sleeplessness.

In addition to promoting mental health, exercise will help keep your immune system strong and your body in the best possible condition. In addition, you will feel more alert and better able to complete your daily tasks. The better physical condition you are in, the better your body may be able to fight the cancer. Exercise will not cure cancer, but it is an important part of the recovery process.

Some hospitals and cancer clinics offer fitness programs for patients, and these programs may be covered under your insurance policy. These fitness programs are typically designed to keep you active during and after your treatment. In addition, they may offer additional services such as nutrition counseling. Ask your physician about the fitness resources available for cancer patients at your hospital.

If your hospital doesn't offer specialized fitness services for cancer patients, be proactive and seek fitness resources on your own. Join a gym and take advantage of any free classes or personal training that your gym offers. If you can afford it, hire your own trainer who has experience working with cancer patients. Some trainers have specialized knowledge for working with particular types of cancer patients, such as those who suffer from mesothelioma or colon cancer.

Consult your physician before you begin any exercise program to make sure that you are physically able to begin or maintain a fitness program. Most cancer patients can benefit from a fitness regimen, however. Most of all, don't give up on it. You will probably not be able to exercise each day during treatment, but exercise when you can and keep the ultimate goal in mind: your recovery.

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