Exercising during and after cancer treatment

While exercise is one of the best ways we can take care of our bodies, special consideration often is required when it comes to working out during or after cancer treatment. That's why Gundersen Health System is proud to offer personalized exercise programs designed to optimize patients' health, whether they have recently been diagnosed with cancer or have finished treatment.

To help maintain or increase your strength during or after cancer treatment, talk to you provider about your options, such as:

LiveStrong at the YMCA, La Crosse - LiveStrong is a 12-week small-group fitness program for adult cancer survivors who have become deconditioned or chronically fatigued from their treatment and/or disease. The program includes:

• Free 12-week YMCA Family Membership
• Two 75-minute classes per week
• A combination of individual instruction and group activities

Participants must receive medical clearance and are evaluated on an individual basis. Contact: Health Interventions Director, Dana Boler at [email protected]

Winona Survivors Unite in Exercise (Program) - Winona State University, Gundersen Health System Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders and Winona Health have teamed up to offer a free, customized exercise program for patients with cancer. The goal of the program is to help you maintain or improve strength, endurance, flexibility and wellness following treatment.

• Meeting Time: The program is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:45 to 7:45 a.m.
• Location: Winona State University Wellness Complex - Room 136
• Requirements: Check with your physician to determine if you are ready for the program.

Contact Winona Survivors Unite in Exercise Project Manager, Winona State University at (507) 457-5219 or email, [email protected] to register for this free exercise program.

Living Smart (Booklet) - Available from the American Cancer Society. Contact the American Cancer Society Navigator at (608) 775-1359.

Physical Activity and the Cancer Patient - This American Cancer Society article discusses exercise during and after cancer treatment. It provides information about different types of exercises and tips to help you increase your physical activity. Remember, always talk to your provider before starting an exercise program.