None of us need telling how important exercise is whether you are able bodied or not.
The benefits of regular exercise are well documented. However, even with all this knowledge I have found exercising quite difficult. During my chemotherapy regime I lost a lot of weight due in part to the nausea, loss of appetite and fatigue. In my opinion I was almost skeletal in appearance which zapped my confidence no end. However due the culinary expertise of my wonderful husband I did get my appetite back and regained some weight. The problem now is the weight gain is mainly fat and flab and not muscle. I did try to get some advice post-chemo from my hospital and supportive therapy team about getting some kind of physiotherapy – all I wanted was someone to give me a few pointers in terms of exercise to strengthen my muscles. Physios are there in the hospitals and do an amazing job to get people moving again after surgery or long term bed confinement but I could not get any help in this area. I do not have the confidence or stamina to attend regular ‘keep fit’ classes. I do try and walk as much as possible – living by the seaside I do have the benefit of a flat prom. I use a pedometer just to keep myself on target. I am able to go up and down stairs at home without getting breathless but walking up inclines are difficult.
At the Mesothelioma UK day one of speakers was Julie Robinson who gave us taster of her ‘Move It or Lose It’ DVDs. Great fun and something I could do. I have just purchased these.
Have been sat here too long now and need to get moving! Tess x
You are absolutely right Tess - Use it or Lose it! Despite being addicted to crafting, I try and be active every day and am shocked by how little movement some healthy people actually achieve during a typical day. Good luck to you and your new regime.
ReplyDeleteJanet xx