By continuing to use our site, you consent to the processing of cookies, user data (location information, type and version of the OS, the type and version of the browser, the type of device and the resolution of its screen, the source of where the user came from, from which site or for what advertisement, language OS and Browser, which pages are opened and to which buttons the user presses, ip-address) for the purpose of site functioning, retargeting and statistical surveys and reviews. If you do not want your data to be processed, please leave the site.
The Voice of People With Breast Cancer
Information
Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Practical Issues
Exercise
Exercise can have many physical benefits, including better energy, fitness, cardiovascular health and muscular strength and endurance. It can also help with side effects of cancer treatment such as fatigue, pain, depression, anxiety and stress. But living with metastatic breast cancer can affect the types of exercise you can do and the frequency in which you should be doing it. Bone metastases, for example, can lead to weaker bones and a higher risk for fractures or breaks. You may be advised to do strength exercises to help reduce these risks and at the same time, be instructed to avoid high-impact sports, like running.
Exercise comes in many different forms. Aerobic activity, such as walking, jogging or swimming, uses your larger muscles (arms or legs) to increase your heart rate, improve blood flow and strengthen your heart and lungs. Resistance training, for example lifting weights, works to build and strengthen your muscles while activities like yoga or Tai Chi, focus on your balance and flexibility.
While the Public Health Agency of Canada recommends 2.5 hours of moderate exercise a week for adults aged 18-64 years your doctor may recommend a lower level of physical activity depending on your treatment and your side effects. It is important to report to your healthcare team when any new symptoms appear, such as shortness of breath or dizziness, for example.
Whether you exercised regularly before your breast cancer diagnosis or not at all, physical activity may be beneficial for your health and wellbeing. Since everyone is different, it is important that you talk with your doctor first to determine how and when you can start exercising.
Watch our webinar on Getting and Staying Active after a Breast Cancer Diagnosis with Dr. Jennifer Brunet for a better understanding of how living an active lifestyle can positively affect your quality of life. Or you can read her tips on getting active on page 14 of Network News Fall 2014.
Reading suggestions from our blog:
The Canadian Cancer Society has a database that can be used to find local support services in your area. You can access it below:
SHARE
Our Stories
Events
Receive updates by email Subscribe Now
About CBCN
CBCN strives to voice the views and concerns of breast cancer patients through education, advocacy activities, and the promotion of information sharing.
Canadian Breast Cancer Network
185 Somerset St. West Suite 318, Ottawa, ON Canada K2P 0J2
Tel: 613-230-3044
Toll-free: 1-800-685-8820
Email Us
