Going through cancer treatment can make exercise feel overwhelming or out of reach. However, staying active may actually help you feel better during this difficult time. Research shows that regular physical activity can reduce fatigue, boost your mood, and help manage side effects from treatment. It can become one of the most powerful tools in your cancer care toolkit.
To stay active during treatment, try to find activities that match your energy level. In the winter, you can explore both indoor and outdoor options that can keep you moving.
Indoor activities are a comfortable and convenient choice when it’s cold or when you're not feeling up to venturing outside. Gentle yoga classes can help you stay flexible and reduce stress without straining your body. Swimming in a heated indoor pool is a full-body workout that's easy on joints and can help strengthen muscles that may have weakened during treatment. The water’s support can also make movement easier when you're feeling tired. Walking through indoor malls or community centers gives you a chance to move at your own pace while staying warm and having access to rest areas when needed.
On days when you have more energy and want some fresh air, outdoor winter activities can be very therapeutic. Ice skating provides a fun way to work on balance and coordination while enjoying time with family or friends. The cold air can also feel refreshing, especially if you're experiencing hot flashes from treatment. Bundling up for a short walk in nature, even just around your neighborhood, can lift your spirits and provide gentle cardiovascular exercise. The important thing is to listen to your body and stop when you need to rest.
Before starting any exercise routine during treatment, talk with your oncology team about what's safe for you. They can provide guidance based on your specific treatment plan, current blood counts, and overall health status. Your nurse can also offer tips for managing symptoms like nausea or fatigue that may affect your ability to exercise on certain days.
The best exercise is one you enjoy and will stick with, so choose activities that make you happy. You might invite a friend or family member to join you for walks or a class. Set small, realistic goals that give you a sense of accomplishment without overwhelming you. Celebrate every victory, whether it's walking a little further or finishing a yoga class.
Moving your body during treatment is more than just a matter of physical health. It helps you feel more in control, find small moments of joy, and remember that you are more than your diagnosis. Whether you're gliding across an ice rink, flowing through gentle yoga poses, or simply taking a walk around the block, you're showing up for yourself. That takes courage, and you should be proud of every effort you make. At New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, our oncology team understands how important it is to stay active during treatment and can offer guidance tailored to your needs.