Reclaiming Your Strength: 4 Tips for Starting a Workout Routine After Breast Cancer Treatment

Hey queens, let's have a heart-to-heart about reclaiming our strength after kicking breast cancer to the curb. This one hits close to home for me because, before breast cancer, I was a gym rat. I loved every minute of heavy weights and intense workouts. But cancer tried to steal that joy from me. Fatigue hit hard, and I had to slow down. And let's not even talk about surgery recovery—it took forever to regain full movement in my left arm.

But you know what, sis? After treatment was over, I wasn't about to let cancer win. It was slow progress, but I was determined to get back to where I used to be. Here are some of the things I did to get me started, and I hope they'll help you too:

1 – Start Slow and Listen to Your Body:

After treatment, it's tempting to jump back into your old workout routine full throttle. But trust me, sis, that's a recipe for burnout. Start slow and listen to your body. Take baby steps, and gradually increase the intensity as you feel comfortable. Your body knows what it needs—honor that.

2 –Focus on Low-Impact Exercises:

Joint pain and fatigue are common after treatment, so opt for low-impact exercises that are gentle on your body. Walking, swimming, and yoga became my new best friends. Not only are they great for your physical health, but they're also perfect for easing you back into a workout routine without overdoing it.

3 – Prioritize Strength Training:

Building strength was crucial for me to regain confidence and mobility. I started with light weights and resistance bands, focusing on major muscle groups. Strength training not only helped me physically but also empowered me mentally. There's something incredibly empowering about feeling strong and capable in your body.

4 – Find Joy in Movement:

Remember why you fell in love with exercise in the first place, sis. It's not just about burning calories—it's about feeling alive and empowered. So, find activities that bring you joy and make you feel good. Even if you don't love exercise, there are plenty of other ways to move your body. Whether it's dancing, hiking, gardening, or playing with your kids, find what lights you up and do more of it. Movement is medicine for the soul.

Remember:

Reclaiming your strength after breast cancer treatment is a journey, sis, but you're not alone. Take it one step at a time, listen to your body, and celebrate every victory by declaring, "Cancer, I Won" along the way.