"Exercise may be one of the best things you can do for yourself during and after your cancer treatment. Remaining active during this period was key for me in getting through metastic testicular cancer in the best possible shape, both physically and mentally. In fact, I firmly believe that my exercise program – specially designed to accommodate my treatments and resulting change in physical ability – got me into the mental and physical condition that was necessary for me to be able to win the Tour de France."
Lance Armstrong, Cancer Survivor, 7-time winner Tour de France
You do not have to be a professional athlete to benefit from physical activity during and after cancer treatment. The American Cancer Society recommends that physical activity and exercise instruction be included as a component of comprehensive cancer care.
Pilates Exercise Program for Cancer Recovery
Almost any exercise can aid cancer patients in treatment or recovering from treatment. However, Pilates has proven to be one of the safest exercise programs for a cancer survivor. Pilates offers a non-impact reintroduction or first time introduction to exercise that can help cancer patients regain physical endurance and emotional health. Pilates is a total body workout that increases circulation, flexibility and strength. The Pilates workout can be easily modified to accommodate any injury, imbalance or weak area of the body. The assistive exercise options in Pilates are a good starting point. There are endless options to challenge the client as they move through their treatment and physically improve. The cancer survivor can achieve small goals rapidly which helps with overall sense of achievement and well-being.
Mary is certified and experienced in working with clients undergoing cancer treatment or cancer recovery. She understands the complexities and uniqueness of each individual's treatment program and physical capabilities. She starts each new client with a private one-on-one meeting. Mary discusses the client's goals, problems and current physical condition. She also evaluates medical information provided regarding surgery, treatment, to understand physical limitations and implications on activity. Mary then develops a custom Pilates exercise program that will aid the cancer survivor's recovery. The program is then modified as the client advances in their cancer treatment and their physical abilities improve.
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