For some of us, finding the time and motivation to exercise is challenging, but for many people there are obstacles much greater than time and motivation.
Approximately 133 million Americans are living with a chronic disease. In 2019, nearly 2 million people will be diagnosed with cancer and another 60,000 will be diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in the United States alone. Both diseases have their own set of challenges and symptoms, but the symptoms and outlook of both can be greatly improved with regular physical activity.
In the past, people being treated with chronic diseases were told to take it easy and limit physical activity as much as possible. With modern research we now know it is not only possible to exercise with chronic conditions, such as cancer, but it can actually help your body function and improve your quality of life. Today's oncologists and cancer teams are encouraging their patients' participation in physical activity and structured exercise programs during and after their cancer treatment.
Many of the positive effects of exercise are readily known and most are aware of the health benefits, but many of those benefits are especially important for people affected by cancer. Exercise can decrease the feeling of nausea, depression, anxiety and fatigue that many cancer survivors experience. Sustaining proper blood flow is another important benefit as blood clotting can be an issue for survivors who remain sedentary during and after treatment.
Many of the same benefits are true for people suffering from Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's patients who exercise regularly tend to see improvements in their gait, movement patterns, balance, coordination, and a decrease in the frequency and severity of tremors. In addition, Parkinson's patients can especially benefit from more vigorous exercise. Studies have shown people who take part in higher intensity exercise such as running or cycling experience fewer changes in brain function as they age. Cycling or biking is a great option because of the stability it creates for the person. It will make for a much safer atmosphere and one where the risk of a fall is greatly decreased.
The best way to make sure a program is right for you is to seek out a certified professional and gain consent from your physician. Even the best and well-intentioned exercise program is useless if it is not safe. Know your limits and follow the advice of a quality trainer.
Statistics and information gathered from American Cancer Society and Parkinson's Foundation.
Brett Blythe leads the LiveSTRONG and Pedaling for Parkinson's programs at the Jefferson City Area YMCA. These programs help cancer survivors and Parkinson's patients maintain, regain and sustain their strength and quality of life, while providing a supportive and social atmosphere. For more information about these programs visit jcymca.org or call 573-761-3459.