Podcast Episode 20: Cancer and Exercise with Lou James
Podcast Episode 20: Cancer and Exercise with Lou James
Complete Health Podcast: Cancer Rehab
In the first part of our two part chat with Founder and Director of Pinc and Steel Lou James, Reece and Helen talk to Lou about the birth of Pinc and Steel and the work they do with cancer patients.
In particular, they talk about how important exercise is during your cancer journey, building body confidence and how to trust in your ability to exercise during this time.
What Our Experts Say
Cancer and its treatment can make the body feel unfamiliar, so returning to movement should not be about immediately reaching your previous level of fitness. It is about creating safe and supportive opportunities to move, gradually rebuild strength and recognise what your body can do. Pilates can be adapted from one session to the next, allowing the programme to respond to changes in energy, mobility and confidence throughout treatment and recovery.
Key Takeaways
- Exercise can remain part of your cancer journey – Appropriate movement can support your physical and emotional wellbeing during treatment and recovery.
- Cancer rehabilitation is about more than physical fitness – Rebuilding confidence in your body can be just as important as improving strength, mobility and endurance.
- Trusting your body may take time – Cancer and its treatment can change how your body feels, so returning to exercise should be gradual and guided by what you can manage.
- Specialist support can make movement feel more achievable – Cancer rehabilitation professionals can help you find a level of exercise that reflects your symptoms, treatment and personal goals.
- Progress will look different for everyone – Exercise does not need to mean returning immediately to your previous routine. Small, manageable steps can help you reconnect with movement and recognise what your body is still capable of.
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FAQs
1. Can I exercise while having chemotherapy?
For many people, it is safe to remain active during chemotherapy, but your activity may need to change depending on your symptoms, treatment and blood-test results. You may need to do less immediately after treatment or on days when your energy is lower. Speak to your cancer team before beginning a new exercise programme.
2. Can exercise help with cancer-related fatigue?
Yes. Although exercising when you feel tired may seem difficult, regular physical activity can help some people manage cancer-related fatigue and improve their energy, mood and general wellbeing. Begin at a manageable level and build up gradually rather than exercising until you feel exhausted.
3. What type of exercise is best during cancer treatment?
There is no single form of exercise that is suitable for everyone. Depending on your health and treatment, your programme may include aerobic activity, strength exercises, mobility work and balance exercises. The type and amount should be adapted to your fitness, symptoms and medical advice.
4. When should I stop exercising during cancer treatment?
Stop exercising if you suddenly experience symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, a racing heart, breathing difficulties, nausea or unusual muscle, back or bone pain. Speak to your healthcare team before continuing if you feel unwell or develop symptoms that concern you.
5. Can Pilates be adapted during or after cancer treatment?
Yes. Clinical Pilates exercises can be modified according to your energy, movement restrictions, treatment side effects and stage of recovery. One-to-one cancer rehabilitation sessions may help you gradually work on areas such as strength, mobility, breathing and everyday endurance at your own pace.
Feeling Inspired?
If you want to experience the Complete difference and discover the benefits of one-to-one or small group Pilates, book a session at one of our London or Norfolk studios today. Not able to make it to one of our studios? We've got online options to suit you anywhere, anytime.
Our physiotherapist-led Chelsea Pilates studio, our Angel Pilates studio, our Pilates studio in London City, and our Norfolk Pilates studio in East Anglia, offer a highly tailored approach to your Pilates training. Whether your goal is to manage a health condition, rehabilitate from an injury or to improve your strength and fitness, Complete Pilates is the studio for you.
Education is Key
These blogs are designed to give information to everyone, however, it is important to remember that everyone is different! If you have not seen one of our therapists and have any questions about injuries, what you have read or whether this may be useful to you, please just ask. We are more than happy to help anyone and point you in the right direction. Our biggest belief is that education is key. The more you understand about your injury, illness and movement, the more you are likely to improve.
If you are not sure whether this is for you, simply get in touch. We are here to help!
Published 13 Apr 2023 · Updated 4 Aug 2026