I’m due to finish chemo in a couple of weeks. Previously I was very active, running and doing Pilates but this has had to change. I now struggle to run a mile. I’ve mentioned running to my breast cancer nurses, but they’re not helping, generally saying how impressed they are but that they couldn’t do it. I really need someone who’s been through breast cancer treatment and chemo who was a keen runner and how they got back to it. An advocate. I just feel like most people don’t get it and feel like all the exercise programs are aimed at people who’ve never exercised before and are overweight. Is there any advice?
I ran for half of my chemo and carried on doing park runs and training but had to pack it in between cycles 4-6. I haven’t found any training advice online about this either. I did try running when my chemo had finished and felt so utterly knackered that I decided to leave it for a bit until I was more recovered (then had surgery and still not allowed to run under surgeon’s advice, it is driving me mad!) Anyway, I would advise asking for your latest blood test results from chemo to see what your red blood cell count is like. Shortly after my run following my last chemo I came down with neutropenic sepsis and was admitted to hospital for IV antibiotics and fluid. So I think it depends on your recovery after chemo and how well you feel in yourself as to when you can get back to running. Whilst I’m waiting to return to running I’m doing some leg work, squats and lunges to keep my legs strong so that may be worth a thought? Hope you can get back to it soon!
I got back by doing the C25K programme. It was hard for the first couple of weeks but soon improved. I started about 6 weeks after finishing treatment. Unfortunately it didn’t last long as my cancer spread and with more treatment and more complications, it hasn’t been doable.
I am currently reading a book called ‘Moving through Cancer’ by Dr Kathryn Schmitz about exercise and strength training through cancer. I’m a runner too but didn’t have chemo so can’t help with that. I’m just reading the chapters in the book that apply to me and am finding it useful. Good luck, I hope you’re able to get back to your running soon.
I’m not a runner but am active in yoga, body combat and walking at pace. Chemo took its toll and slowed me down however yoga helped keep me strong and balanced. Walking improved after chemo finished so I could speed walk and go distance again. What I would say is start small, Little and often and build it up. listen to your body. Maybe use the couch to 5k method,
Hope it goes well and congratulations on finishing chemo xxxx
There is a charity called ‘Move Against Cancer’ - they have some really keen runners in it. They might be able to help with advice or at least shared experience.
I have stopped the gym while im having chemo. Plan to do c25k once I’m finished. I thibk you’ll have success with c25k, and may find you’ve retained a lot of residual fitness. Good luck.
I finished chemo in June and had a mastectomy 6 weeks ago today, so I’m only just cleared to run again but I’m going to start with C25K because there’s no need to rush into things. I’d kept up with being fairly active during chemo and before/after surgery (strength training, light cardio, lots of walking) but no running for the duration so we’ll see how it goes.
and was admitted to hospital for IV antibiotics and fluid. So I think it depends on your recovery after chemo and how well you feel in yourself as to when you can get back to running. Whilst I’m waiting to return to running I’m doing some leg work, squats and lunges to keep my legs strong so that may be worth a thought? Hope you can get back to it soon! 