Exercises

Hi @Claudia79, often the best way is to start gently and work your way back. An exercise physiologist could give you some guidance. Hope it all goes well for you  :)

If you're anywhere other than Victoria you could start with the Encore program at the YWCA. It seems to have a good reputation here.

www.ywcaencore.org.au

It's absolutely not too much or too soon. My physio just said to wait 10 weeks. I was scared about doing body weight exercises etc etc but my breast surgeon said all is okay and to go for it. So I have. I do some aquafit classes which works upper body also...good starting point. I do machine weights, kettle bells and dumbells... and I'm working on body  weight exercises. I still really struggle holding my own weight (being really fat did not help) however as I've got smaller I can at least hold my weight for a plank. So start off light and increase as you feel ready. If you do it regularly you'll improve quickly. 

I don't do boxing as it plays hell with my neck (even in water) but no reason why you can't. It will feel weird at first but you'll adjust. If sore the next day across the chest...don't freak out...its just using that chest muscle again . ..a quick massage will help.

I’d like to also recommend Encore the YWCA ‘s free 8 week hydrotherapy course - 2 hours per week .It includes weekly talks on matters of interest eg Otis foundation , reconstruction , prostheses as well as an hour of pool exercises focussing on lymphoedema.The program is extensive in NSW as I think it has state govt support but non existent in Victoria with the other states having smaller programs.It’s a great way to meet up with others too.

I would second seeing an exercise physiologist or specialised physiotherapist as a starting point so that you build up gradually.

After doing the Encore programme, just after my breast reconstruction, I  started aquarobics classes, two times per week. I have now been doing these classes for 13  years. I have walked and run in the "City to Surf" numerous times. Up until the beginning of this year, even though I was having IV chemo for metastatic breast cancer, I  was doing self defence classes, once per week.I  had to stop these because they are high impact, and I  was worried about bruising.  I am now doing yoga at least three times per week. Plus I walk at least four times per week. I also garden. Don't let anything stop you from exercising. It is the best anti-depressant ever.

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Dear Ladies... u r inspiration for me. Not just ur advice but ur strength n determination in not let this beast to beat us. Love u even though I don’t know u personally

Where do you do that programme @Joannie?

@Claudia79 

not sure what State you are from so here is a link with some ideas of where there are some structured programs for exercise

https://www.bcna.org.au/health-wellbeing/physical-wellbeing/exercise-and-staying-fit/exercise-programs/

Also in my kit from the breast care nurse was a DVD from BCNA called "Strengthen Your Recovery" a pilates programe following breast cancer surgery - it is mentioned in this link here 
https://www.bcna.org.au/understanding-breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/staying-mobile-after-surgery/

Take care