How to Stay Active While Battling Lung Cancer

Staying active while battling lung cancer can be achieved two ways--by making a conscious effort to include exercise in your life and by making simple changes that increase your activity level. Studies show the physical activity might reduce the risk of lung cancer. Being active not only helps prevent lung cancer, but can improve the chances of survival and quality of life for those living with the disease, according to a study by the American Association for Cancer Research.

Instructions

• 1

  Engage in at least a half-hour of activity every day, over and above what you usually do. The preferred amount is 45 to 60 minutes. Aim to do activities that make you breathe harder, like you do during a fast walk.

• 2

  Consider activities such as dancing, bicycling, walking, horseback riding or yoga. Sports such as baseball, skiing and tennis are also acceptable forms of staying active. If it's easier to stay around the house, mow the lawn or do some carpentry work.

• 3

  Make substitutions to stay active. Instead of using an elevator, walk up the stairs; take a bike instead of driving and use lunch time as a time to exercise. When planning vacations, choose something active to do. Wear a pedometer daily to see how many steps you're taking, and try to increase that number on a consistent basis.

• 4

  Know that staying active will help you control your weight, reduce the risk of diabetes or high blood pressure, maintain health muscles and bones, and reduce the risk of premature death.

• 5

  Take breaks frequently to give yourself rest. You may tire easily while battling lung cancer, so you don't want to attempt too much too soon. Keep well hydrated.