A Sample Progressive Exercise Program

A Sample Progressive Exercise Program

This exercise program has been devised to increase your strength and endurance. The program, which takes you from your bed to being up and around in three stages, can be started as soon as your physician says its ok. You can refer to the healthlibrary.stanford.edu/resources/videos.html website for videotapes of appropriate exercises.

Stage I is on one tape and Stages II and III are together on another tape. The demonstrations include warm-up and full-exercise programs with relaxation sessions at the end.

Stage I exercises are simple and help you to maintain and increase your range of motion. They require little exertion and can be done in bed.

Stage II exercises use a small added weight to increase resistance and can be done when you are spending part of the day out of bed. Once you have gotten back to your normal activities, you will need to establish an exercise routine that includes exercises like these to build up your body's reserves so that temporary bouts with bed rest will not deplete your energy stores.

Stage III exercises provide you with a strengthening and maintenance program for when you are able to spend the whole day out of bed. This series of exercises is a progressive and comprehensive physical rehabilitation program for people with acute or chronic illness. With your doctor's permission, you can begin these exercises even while you are recovering from surgery or undergoing cancer therapy.

Cancer Supportive Care Programs

Cancer Supportive Care Programs