Going to Gym

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crs003
crs003 Member Posts: 73
edited July 2015 in Chemotherapy - Before, During, and After

Does anyone here work out at a gym, or with a personal trainer while on chemo? I have just joined a gym for a year and am considering signing up for some training sessions. I just don't know what my body can do or not do. How much should I tell the trainer about my health background? Also, what should I wear on my head? I was thinking something like a under armour beanie that won't fall off in the middle of a yoga class. That would be embarrassing to say the least. Or should I just rock a headband and say forget it?

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  • proudtospin
    proudtospin Member Posts: 5,972
    edited July 2015

    I work out at a gym, have used personal trainers in the past, it is best to tell the trainer what your health limits may be so that they can structure your workout. I did not use a trainer why in treatment as at the time, I just was not sure what I would be able to do. I did classes (spin was a favorite.) Gyms are different and mine happens to be run/part owned by a large hospital in the area and they are also a cancer center. Best to visit the gym and get a feel for it if it is new to you. Then again, it you are already a member, you will know the style. Good luck, I think my time at the gym helped me get through the dang treatment....oh, I did not do chemo but did do rads

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  • KBeee
    KBeee Member Posts: 5,109
    edited July 2015

    I did not work out with a trainer, but I like to walk and run. I have walked at least 3 miles every day during chemo, 5-6 on most days, and add running a couple miles at least 2-3 days per week. I highly encourage exercise. I think it has made my body handle the chemo much better and it gives me both a physical and mental boost. You just have to adjust your expectations of yourself. I run a bit more slowly than pre-chemo, and if I am tired, I slow down and walk.

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  • Kicks
    Kicks Member Posts: 4,131
    edited July 2015

    I went to the Base Gym during chemo and rads as it was winter during most of the time and as our winters are brutal, I didn't want to be outdoors to get the exercise I usually do (Son was doing all the barn/horse chores for me so I didn't have to). I did not use a trainer at that time. After all TX was over, I did use a 'trainer' but quit as I felt it was a waste of money for me. I did have my OT LET to talk to about what I was doing and to get input.

    I wore a scarf while working out.

    When I did work with the trainer, she would not work with me until she got approval from my PA and my LET as to what was OK for me. Neither gave any limitations.

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  • coraleliz
    coraleliz Member Posts: 1,523
    edited July 2015

    There is a gym where I live that gives free training sessions to cancer patients. I think it's for a month. You might check with your local cancer society to find a trainer that has experience working with cancer patients

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  • Leighrh
    Leighrh Member Posts: 317
    edited July 2015

    I still work out at my Crossfit gym. I have through out Chemo. Its really tough and I cannot do near what I could pre-chemo but I try to make it at least 2 days a week, more if I can. My MO and I agree that keeping up with exercise is good for handling chemo as well as bouncing back after chemo!

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