Manisha Koirala, a prominent Bollywood actress and a survivor of stage 4 ovarian cancer, recently showcased her workout regimen on Instagram, accompanied by the caption: “It’s always a team effort.” In the shared video, the star of “Dil Se…” is seen engaging in various exercises including leg extensions and curls, seated leg presses, wide-grip lat pulldowns, and weightlifting at the gym.
Dr. Supriya Patil, a Consultant Physiotherapist at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai, emphasized that for cancer survivors, the journey to fitness transcends merely restoring physical appearance. She remarked, “It is about regaining strength, enhancing endurance, rebuilding confidence, and returning to daily activities with greater independence,” as reported by indianexpress.com.
It is important to note that this article is derived from publicly available information as well as insights from experts. Individuals are encouraged to consult their healthcare and fitness professionals before embarking on any new exercise routine.
Dr. Patil explained that resistance training involves utilizing external forces, such as dumbbells, resistance bands, gym equipment, or even one’s own body weight, to work muscles. When tailored properly, she believes this form of exercise can assist survivors in combating muscle weakness and physical decline that may arise during or after cancer treatment.
According to Dr. Patil, the effects of cancer and its treatments can diminish muscle strength, stamina, and the capacity to perform routine tasks. She noted, “Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and periods of decreased activity can lead to physical deconditioning, although the extent varies based on the type of treatment and the individual.”
Resistance training can mitigate some of these challenges by providing manageable muscle engagement, thereby enhancing strength and functional abilities over time, making daily tasks like climbing stairs, standing up, lifting groceries, or reaching for items much easier.
Additionally, Dr. Patil highlighted that exercising may alleviate cancer-related fatigue and enhance overall quality of life. However, she clarified that resistance training serves as supportive care and rehabilitation, rather than a direct treatment for cancer.
1. Obtain a tailored assessment: Exercise guidelines should reflect the individual’s medical condition rather than solely their age or completion of treatment.
2. Begin with light weights and progress gradually: The increase should be based on technique, symptoms, and recovery time between sessions. Rapidly escalating weight, repetitions, or duration can obscure the body’s tolerance levels.
3. Acknowledge cancer-related fatigue: Shorter, less intense sessions with planned rest breaks may be more effective than lengthy, strenuous workouts.
4. Prioritize bone health: Survivors with bone metastases, osteoporosis, or past fractures should approach resistance training with caution. Heavy lifting, high-impact activities, and certain movements may need careful modification or avoidance.
5. Be aware of lymphedema risk: This condition can arise following specific cancer treatments, especially if lymph nodes have been removed or irradiated. It’s crucial to start with low resistance, increase gradually, and monitor for signs of swelling or discomfort.
6. Consider cardiovascular health and treatment-related issues: The nature and intensity of exercise should be tailored to the individual’s heart health status. Those with a history of heart complications related to treatment, significant breathlessness, chest pain, or diminished exercise tolerance should have their fitness plans evaluated by their healthcare team.
7. Focus on technique and breathing: Creating a safe exercise environment, wearing stable footwear, and ensuring proper support is essential, particularly for individuals experiencing treatment-related neuropathy or instability.
Dr. Patil cautioned that the capacity to exercise, the suitable movements, and the rate of progression can vary greatly among survivors. While a celebrity’s workout can serve as motivation, it should not be viewed as a one-size-fits-all rehabilitation guide.
It is crucial to consult with health and fitness professionals before initiating any new exercise regimen, as mentioned earlier in this article.
