Alice RD
Yesterday, Mya posted about research exploring how physical activity plays a role in helping cancer survivors feel better.
Based on that growing body of research, the American College of Sports Medicine released the first ever guidelines for physical activity and cancer survivors yesterday at their annual meeting in Baltimore. AICR is exhibiting at the conference, so I was able to catch the presentation on this topic.
The Number One Recommendation: Cancer patients and survivors should engage in physical activity. Basically, as much as possible follow the 2008 federal Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans: at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity aerobic activity and 2 times per week resistance training.
The risk of not being active greatly outweighs risk that might occur from engaging in activity according to the panel that developed the guidelines. The research showed improved quality of life, fitness, flexibility and greater physical functioning in patients and survivors who engaged in physical activity.
For trainers and fitness professionals there are specific recommendations regarding doing individual assessments and tailoring programs for specific diagnoses.
But the strong message was to find a way to be active.
Read more about the guidelines here.
Check out AICR’s information on exercise for cancer survivors with tips on getting started and keeping it going.
