The Power
Of Movement

Moving our bodies can benefit not only our physical health, but our mental health as well. 

As your cancer treatment progresses, it will become even more important to embrace and harness the power of movement. Not only can it improve your mood and help with insomnia, it also builds muscle strength, improves your balance, and keeps you as mobile as possible.

The importance of exercise for those living with cancer, both during and after treatment, has been proven many times in international academic studies. When possible, AFSOS recommends two to five weekly physical activity sessions for 10-20 to 40-60 minutes, plus warming, rest, and relaxation after the session. What is important is to choose the activity that suits you best and makes you feel good.

Pilates is a great example of a low-impact form of exercise. It will help you build muscle strength, reduce your stress and your tiredness, improve your mood and potentially increase your daily quality of life. 

WHAT IS
PILATES

Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates, who believed that mental and physical health are closely connected. His method was developed with influences including gymnastics, boxing and Greco-Roman wrestling. Pilates aims to strengthen the body with particular emphasis on core strength to improve general fitness and wellbeing.

Pilates is a fantastic entry-level form of exercise as there is an accessible starting point for every ability. Simple exercises that are based on strengthening your muscles can be done on the floor, and you can use apparatus to support you if you are a complete beginner. 

Choosing Pilates
Before, During And After
Your Cancer Treatment 

Embarking on regular Pilates can improve your posture, muscle tone, balance and joint mobility, as well as relieve stress and tension. 

If you have had breast cancer surgery, for example, Pilates can strengthen the muscles in the shoulders and the middle back. You can do Pilates in many different positions, to suit your circumstances and ability. It incorporates deep rib cage breathing, which can stretch out scars and encourage lymphatic drainage. 

Because Pilates shifts the focus from the damaged areas of your body and reinforces what you can do, rather than what you cannot, it can help you to appreciate the movement your body is capable of and its capacity to heal.

The more active you are the greater the benefits. Do not forget to consult your doctor before taking on anything that is considered to be high impact.