Resistance Training during Cancer Treatments by Brianna DeWitt PT

You’ve probably heard the old saying, “If you don’t use it, you lose it,” right? Well, it’s true! For oncology patients in particular, resistance training is an important way to maintain strength, balance, and quality of life during and beyond cancer treatments.

Benefits of Resistance Training

  • Maintain functional STRENGTH to continue to do the activities you love

  • Improve or maintain MUSCLE mass

  • Improve or maintain BONE health

  • Improve QUALITY OF LIFE

  • Reduce MORTALITY risk by 33% [Hardee, et al, 2015]

Types of Resistance Training

  • Bodyweight Training

  • Pilates

  • Yoga

  • Weightlifting (free weights, machines, resistance bands, etc.)

  • TRX / Suspension Training

*Pro tip: Choose a type of exercise you enjoy to make it fun and something you look forward to!

Resistance Training Guidelines

  • 2-3 days per week

  • Focus on major muscle groups

  • Moderate Intensity

    • 40-60% of maximal effort

    • RPE 3-6

What is RPE, you ask? RPE, or Rate of Perceived Exertion, is a measure of how hard you feel you’re working. Use this Modified Borg Scale to guide your intensity during your workouts!

Modified Borg Scale

0 RESTING

1 VERY EASY

2 SOMEWHAT EASY

3 MODERATE

4 SOMEWHAT HARD

5-6 HARD

7-9 VERY HARD

10 VERY, VERY HARD

Special Considerations for the Oncology Population

Take extra precaution AND work with a specialist if you know that you have:

  • Bone Metastasis

  • Osteoporosis

  • Abnormal sensation or dizziness/imbalance which may increase your fall risk!

Now you know some general guidelines for resistance training for cancer patients! By the way, these general guidelines apply to those without cancer as well! Always seek medical advice before starting a new exercise program and remember: All information shared on this blog is for educational purposes only. If you are thinking of starting an exercise program, consult with your physical therapist or physician to determine what is right for you!


Check out Brianna’s Blog at https://bridpt.blog/

About Brianna DeWitt PT:

Hi! I’m Bri.

I’m a Montana girl living the dream in paradise. I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in pelvic health, orthopedics, and vestibular conditions.

I was recently diagnosed with stage Ia tiple negative breast cancer in April 2020. Completed AC/TC chemotherapy October 2020.
Lumpectomy with SLNB November 2020 (PCR!).
Radiation to be completed February 2021.

While most of this blog is dedicated to sharing my breast cancer journey with you, you’ll also get a few PT tips along the way and some opportunities to practice Pilates with me!

Thanks for sharing in my journey! A hui hou!

Angela Wicker-Ramos