How to Ease Back Into Exercise After Cancer
Finishing cancer treatment can feel like reaching the finish line of a long, grueling race—but for many survivors, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter.
Rebuilding strength, energy, and confidence takes time, and for those ready to move again, exercise can be a powerful tool for healing.
But where do you start when your body feels different? How do you listen to it without fear or frustration?
When to Avoid Certain Types of Physical Activity After Cancer
After cancer treatment, movement is powerful—but it’s not one size fits all. There are times when certain activities should be avoided or modified to keep recovery safe and effective.
🚫 1.During Active Treatment (Chemo, Radiation, or Immunotherapy)
Avoid:
High-intensity or prolonged workouts
Activities that raise infection risk (e.g., crowded gyms, swimming in public pools if immune suppressed)
Why: Energy is limited, and the immune system may be compromised. Focus on rest and gentle movement instead (like walking or lymphatic drainage exercises).
🚫 2. After Surgery
Avoid:
Heavy lifting or full-body strength work until cleared
Core-heavy movements after abdominal or chest surgery (like crunches or planks)
Why: Healing tissues and surgical sites need time. Movement should be guided by your medical team.
🚫 3. If You Have Lymphedema or Are at Risk
Avoid:
Intense or repetitive arm/leg workouts without clearance
Exercises that restrict blood flow or involve tight compression (like heavy gripping or overly tight clothing)
Why: Risk of fluid buildup and swelling. Begin with low resistance and watch for signs of flare-ups.
🚫 4. When Fatigue or Neuropathy Are Severe
Avoid:
Balance-challenging exercises (e.g., single-leg moves, trail running)
Workouts that feel unsafe due to numbness or dizziness
Why: Nerve damage or fatigue can affect coordination and safety. Seated exercises or supported movements are better until symptoms ease.
🚫 5. If Bones Are Weakened (Osteoporosis or Bone Mets)
Avoid:
High-impact or jarring movements (e.g., jumping, running)
Twisting or bending under load (like weighted rotations or deep forward folds)
Why: Fragile bones are more prone to fractures. Focus on low-impact, controlled strength training and posture work.
✅ When in Doubt:
Always get medical clearance first
Start small—then build
Work with a cancer exercise specialist (like myself💪)