If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer, you know that the road ahead can be challenging.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer, you know that the road ahead can be challenging. Treatment can be tough on the body and the mind, and finding ways to stay active and engaged can be a struggle. But did you know that rowing can be a great way to stay fit and healthy during and after cancer treatment?

While it is important to talk to your doctor before beginning any type of exercise program, incorporating regular physical activity into your cancer treatment plan can have significant positive effects on your health and mental well-being. There may be specific recommendations or guidelines based on your individual circumstances.

Physical Benefits of Rowing

Cancer treatments can take a huge toll on your body, which is why low-impact exercise is a great choice for someone who’s looking to improve their fitness. Low-impact exercises, such as rowing, puts less stress on your joints and muscles than high-impact exercises like running or jumping. This can be especially important if you are experiencing pain or discomfort from your cancer treatment.

Rowing is a great low-impact exercise that can be done indoors or outdoors, and it provides a full-body workout. It's an ideal form of exercise because although it’s gentle on the joints, it still helps you build strength and endurance. This is why rowing can be a great way to gain back the loss of muscle mass that may have been caused by treatment. By working your arms, legs, back and core muscles, rowing can help you develop a stronger physique.

In addition to building strength and muscle mass, rowing is also an excellent way to improve your cardiovascular health. It’s a great way to get your heart rate up, which helps your body receive a healthy flow of oxygen-rich blood to function.

Mental and Emotional Benefits of Rowing

Whether you’re in the treatment stage of your cancer journey or recovery, you may have times when you feel overwhelmed and stressed. Rowing can help decrease levels of stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins for a natural mood boost.

Being outdoors can also have a positive impact on your mental health. By connecting with the sights and sounds you experience on the water, you can give your mind time to discard all the worries you may have.

Rowing doesn’t just give your body a workout however, it can also increase the stimulation of the brain! Learning a complex new skill ensures that your brain stays active which is important for cognitive functions, such as attention and memory.

Whether you’re rowing competitively or for pleasure, taking the initiative to sit in the boat can give you a great sense of accomplishment. You should be proud of yourself for committing to the challenge and having fun doing it!

Social Benefits of Rowing

There may be times when your diagnosis or recovery can be lonely. Joining a rowing club or team can provide a sense of community that is vital for combatting these feelings of loneliness or isolation. Rowing offers you the opportunity to meet new people, make fun memories and find a supportive group of friends.

How Can You Start?

Once you have the go-ahead from your doctor, you can start looking for local rowing clubs or gyms that offer classes or equipment. If you're interested in trying rowing, it's important to start slowly and work with a qualified instructor or coach. They can help you develop proper form and technique to prevent injury and get the most out of your workout.

Rowing is a great activity for people with a cancer diagnosis who want to stay activeand healthy. It offers physical, mental, and social benefits, and it can be done at your own pace and level of intensity. So why not give it a try and see how it can benefit you?