Being diagnosed with cancer is a tough blow, but there are quite a few ways to improve your quality of life. One of these is incorporating a regular exercise program into your lifestyle. Running is a great way to get that exercise and experience the many benefits that stem from an increased fitness level.
One way running can help is by improving your perception of your body image and shape. Many cancer patients have their physical appearance altered by their treatment and begin to suffer from poor self esteem and feelings of being unattractive.
Changes in body composition are not uncommon in cancer patients, but the changes can vary depending upon what type of cancer they have. Some forms of cancer are associated with weight loss and loss of muscle mass. Head and neck cancer and gastrointestinal cancer are two such types of cancer. In these cases, running can be helpful in increasing lean muscle mass. Running is also helpful for increasing one’s lung capacity. Cancers such as lung cancer and mesothelioma causes patients to focus on cardio exercises and running is one way patients are able to focus on breathing.
Another great reason to consider adding running to your anti-cancer regimen is its remarkable ability to lower anxiety and stress. Having a serious illness can also add a mental burden in addition to the obvious physical one. Running on a regular basis helps lower stress and anxiety over time by changing your body chemistry. Stress creates substances in the body like cortisol (the “fight or flight” chemical) that are lowered by regular exercise like running.
Running also releases the body’s own chemical storehouse to aid in relieving stress. The body’s own painkillers called “endorphins” are released. The so-called “runners high” is a result of these powerful painkillers being released into the body. Other chemicals like serotonin and dopamine are also released during a good run.
If you would like to experience the many benefits of running, be sure to consult first with your doctor so that he can recommend a level of activity that is right for your condition. It isn’t necessary to become an Olympic athlete to see positive change. But you will need to make running a regular part of your routine. Sure, there may be some soreness at first, but that will fade as your body adjusts. If you ever feel you are overdoing it, ease off for a bit before resuming. Once you see the weight loss, mood boosting, and stress reducing effects of running, you’ll have all the motivation you need to stick with it.