How to Exercise After Prostate Cancer Treatment

According to information from the Mayo Clinic, prostate cancer is cancer affecting the prostate gland--a male-specific, walnut-shaped gland near the reproductive organs. Prostate cancer is fairly common, affecting roughly one out of every six men during their lives, causing symptoms such as difficulty urinating, pain while urinating or ejaculating and minor incontinence. Exercise can help contribute to slowing the spread of prostate cancer, according to an article in the September 2001 issue of Journal of Urology, so making an effort to include exercise after treatment is important.

Instructions

Exercising After Prostate Cancer Treatment

• 1

  Avoid performing exercises that will irritate the area near the prostate gland if you have had surgery or another invasive procedure (like targeted radiation therapy) performed on the area. This means dodging exercises that place pressure on the perineum such as stationary cycling, box squatting, or anything else that causes discomfort to the region. If you experience any regional pain triggered by exercise, choose a different activity.

• 2

  Consider low- to moderate-intensity activities to allow your body to get in some exercise without the risk of excessive strain while recovering from prostate cancer treatment. Mild to brisk walking is a fantastic way to exercise for individuals who are not used to an exercise regime or are otherwise unable to give 100 percent at more challenging activities. Walk at least 30 minutes a day, aiming to elevate your heart rate and breathing level at least slightly to derive maximum benefits.

• 3

  Make it a goal to perform some manner of exercise at least five days out of the week, assuming your condition permits. Strike while the proverbial iron is hot--if you have having a good day consider doubling your normal exercise session to provide your body with some extra benefit and a minor "buffer" against days where you are not feeling so well and have to skip planned exercise. Regardless, do not feel bad if you have to miss a session due to your physical condition--just try your best to work around the issue and give as much effort as you can while exercising after prostate cancer treatment.