Rest, fatigue, and exercise

Rest, fatigue, and exercise

Extreme tiredness, called fatigue, is very common in people treated for cancer. This is not
a normal tiredness, but a "bone-weary" exhaustion that doesn't get better with rest. For
some people, fatigue lasts a long time after treatment, and can make it hard for them to
exercise and do other things they want to do. But exercise can help reduce fatigue.
Studies have shown that patients who follow an exercise program tailored to their
personal needs feel better physically and emotionally and can cope better, too.
If you were sick and not very active during treatment, it is normal for your fitness,
endurance, and muscle strength to decline. Any plan for physical activity should fit your
own situation. An older person who has never exercised will not be able to take on the
same amount of exercise as a 20-year-old who plays tennis twice a week. If you haven't
exercised in a few years, you will have to start slowly – maybe just by taking short walks.
Talk with your health care team before starting anything. Get their opinion about your
exercise plans. Then, try to find an exercise buddy so you're not doing it alone. Having
family or friends involved when starting a new exercise program can give you that extra
boost of support to keep you going when the push just isn't there.
If you are very tired, you will need to balance activity with rest. It is OK to rest when you
need to. Sometimes it's really hard for people to allow themselves to rest when they are
used to working all day or taking care of a household, but this is not the time to push
yourself too hard. Listen to your body and rest when you need to. (For more information
on dealing with fatigue, please see Fatigue in People With Cancer and Anemia in People
With Cancer.)
Keep in mind exercise can improve your physical and emotional health.
· It improves your cardiovascular (heart and circulation) fitness.
· Along with a good diet, it will help you get to and stay at a healthy weight.
· It makes your muscles stronger.
· It reduces fatigue and helps you have more energy.
· It can help lower anxiety and depression.
· It can make you feel happier.

· It helps you feel better about yourself.
And long term, we know that getting regular physical activity plays a role in helping to
lower the risk of some cancers, as well as having other health benefits.