August is National Wellness Month, a time to focus on healthy habits that support our overall well-being. For people undergoing cancer treatment, staying active may look different than it did before treatment, but even small amounts of movement can be a meaningful part of your wellness routine. 

Listen to Your Body 

Cancer treatment can affect your energy levels, strength and stamina. Some days you may feel ready for more activity, while other days rest may be what your body needs. The goal is not to push through exhaustion, but to find a level of movement that feels manageable for you. 

If you are new to exercise or have concerns about being active during treatment, talk with your healthcare team before starting a new routine. Your care team can help you determine what types and amounts of activity are appropriate for you. 

Start Small 

Staying active does not necessarily mean spending hours at the gym. Depending on how you are feeling, simple activities such as taking a short walk, stretching, doing light household activities or moving around throughout the day can help you stay active. 

If you have limited energy, try breaking activity into smaller amounts throughout the day. A few minutes of movement at a time can be more manageable than trying to complete one longer workout. 

Find Activities You Enjoy 

Wellness is about more than physical health. Choosing activities you enjoy can make it easier to stay motivated and give you something positive to look forward to during treatment. 

Consider activities that fit comfortably into your routine, such as walking with a friend, gentle stretching, light gardening or other forms of movement you enjoy. You can also invite a loved one to join you, making physical activity an opportunity to spend time together. 

Give Yourself Grace 

There may be days when treatment makes physical activity difficult, and that is okay. Rest and recovery are also important parts of taking care of yourself. Your activity level may change throughout treatment, and adjusting your routine as needed is not a setback. 

Staying active during cancer treatment is about finding ways to move that work for you, not meeting a specific fitness goal. Start where you are, listen to your body and give yourself permission to adjust as needed. Talk with your healthcare team about ways to safely incorporate physical activity into your treatment journey.