For prostate cancer survivors, exercising as much as you are physically able (and at your level of personal fitness) is very beneficial for both fighting the disease and preventing recurrence. Several studies have shown that vigorous exercise significantly reduced the risk of prostate cancer recurrence, compared with the same volume of exercise at an easy pace. (Talk to your care team before beginning any new exercise routine.)

You already know how physical activity can improve your mood and help you manage your weight. But besides also helping you maintain muscle and bone strength, exercise will help you and your body cope with the possible side effects of your prostate cancer treatment. It can help you prepare for and recover from surgery much easier as well.

Moving more, breathing hard, and getting your heart pumping will not only affect your energy metabolism, but it also reduces inflammation and reduces oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and your body’s ability to counteract or detoxify their harmful effects. Exercise also boosts your immunity!

The best benefit of all? Exercise decreases androgen signaling pathways, which is especially beneficial for men in the early stages of prostate cancer. This is significant because early prostate cancer uses androgen to grow.

Remember, exercise is good for everyone! Talk to your care team before starting any new exercise activity. When you’re ready to plan, call your Health Advisor. They can help!

_ 

Don’t have a Health Advisor? 

Click here to see if you qualify for one of our FREE programs.