Appropriately prescribed and monitored exercise is considered safe for clients currently receiving cancer treatment and those that are post treatment.
Because of some contraindications to exercise, on a case by case basis, AEP’s team will consider all personal requirements before prescribing a suitable and safe exercise program.
An Exercise Physiologist will oversee the prescription and progression of a suitable exercise program, while a Physiotherapist may also assist in the treatment plan if musculoskeletal pain, aching or discomfort is hampering exercise capacity.
Input from a Dietitian may also be beneficial to ensure an adequate dietary intake and level of nutrition is achieved to assist with energy levels, fatigue, strength and weight loss/gain. Partaking in a physical activity program typically delivers the following benefits:
Improvements
- Muscle strength, mass and power
- Physical functioning
- Range of motion/joint mobility
- Immune function
- Chemotherapy completion rates
- Body image, mood and self esteem
- Quality of life
Reductions
- Duration of hospitalisation
- Psychological and emotional stress
- Depression and anxiety
- Number and severity of symptoms and side effects reported (e.g. pain, fatigue, nausea)