Peters blog

• #chemotherapy
• #exercise
• #fatigue
• #Peter’s Principles Blog

Chemotherapy and Exercise

Recent research shows that exercise can help reduce some of the fatigue associated with chemo! Scientist followed a group of women aged 27 to 69 who were in the first few stages of chemotherapy. Participants were put on an accelerometer to measure the calories burned during a controlled workout. The women also kept a diary to record levels of fatigue. Researchers found that as the amount of exercise increased, the level of fatigue decreased. The reduced fatigue levels didn't carry over into non-exercise days. Additionally, exercise can help fend off a serious decline in physical function that can last long after therapy is finished. Research found that women who needed chemotherapy for breast cancer can experience muscle loss equal to 10 years of normal aging. The impact of exercise on fatigue during chemo is significant. Remember, working out when you least feel like it can sometimes be the most important time!