Imagine a weapon against prostate cancer that doesn’t involve surgery or medication. What if that weapon was as simple as putting on your walking shoes? Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men worldwide, but beyond medical treatments, there’s a powerful tool that can reduce risks, improve outcomes, and enhance the lives of men facing this disease: exercise.

At PROST! Exercise 4 Prostate Cancer Inc., we’ve seen firsthand how movement transforms lives. Let’s dive into the science of how exercise fights prostate cancer and how it can make a difference at every stage of the journey.

Exercise for Prostate Cancer Prevention

Can exercise reduce the risk of prostate cancer? Research suggests the answer is yes. It has found that men engaging in vigorous activity—like running or cycling—for at least three hours a week had a significantly lower risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.

How Does It Work?

The protective effect of exercise works through several mechanisms:

• Hormonal Regulation: Physical activity helps balance hormones like testosterone and insulin, which can influence cancer growth.

• Reduced Inflammation: Exercise decreases inflammation, a key factor in cancer development.

• Immune Boosting: Regular activity enhances the body’s immune response, making it better at eliminating abnormal cells.

Exercise During Treatment: Managing Side Effects

Cancer treatments like surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy can cause fatigue, weight gain, and muscle loss. Exercise is a proven way to counter these side effects and improve physical and mental well-being.

Benefits by Type of Exercise

• Resistance Training: Prevents muscle loss and supports bone health, especially for men on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

• Aerobic Exercise: Boosts cardiovascular health, reduces fatigue, and improves mood.

• Pelvic Floor Exercises: Crucial for men recovering from prostate surgery, helping to manage urinary incontinence.

Exercise for Preventing Recurrence

For prostate cancer survivors, staying active is essential to reducing the risk of recurrence. A study from the American Cancer Society found that survivors engaging in regular physical activity had a 30% lower risk of recurrence and a 25% lower risk of death from all causes compared to inactive men.

How Much Exercise is Enough?

Experts recommend:

• 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (e.g., brisk walking) per week, or

• 75 minutes of vigorous activity (e.g., running or cycling), plus

• Two strength-training sessions per week.

Psychological Benefits: Beyond the Physical

The mental health toll of prostate cancer can be significant, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. Exercise not only improves physical health but also has profound psychological benefits by releasing endorphins and reducing stress.

Group Exercise: Strength in Numbers

Participating in group programs like PROST! adds an invaluable layer of emotional support. Sharing the journey with others fosters camaraderie and reduces isolation, creating a positive feedback loop for mental well-being.

Breaking Myths Around Exercise and Prostate Cancer

Despite its benefits, myths about exercise and prostate cancer persist. Let’s address two common misconceptions:

1. Myth: “Exercise is too risky after surgery.”
   Fact: Low-impact activities like walking and resistance training are safe and essential for recovery.

2. Myth: “Only intense workouts are effective.”
   Fact: Moderate exercises, such as yoga or swimming, can significantly improve health outcomes.

Nutrition and Exercise: A Dynamic Duo

Combining proper nutrition with regular exercise enhances the body’s ability to fight prostate cancer. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and fatty fish, work synergistically with exercise to reduce inflammation and support overall health.

The PROST! Difference

At PROST! Exercise 4 Prostate Cancer Inc., we’ve created a program tailored to the unique needs of men with prostate cancer. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expert Guidance: Our trainers specialise in working with prostate cancer patients.

• Personalised Plans: We design workouts that suit each participant’s fitness level and recovery stage.

• Supportive Environment: Our sessions foster a sense of community and motivation.

Take the First Step Today

Ready to harness the power of movement in your prostate cancer journey? Join us at PROST! and experience the life-changing benefits of exercise.

Contact Us Today

Visit PROST! Exercise 4 Prostate Cancer Inc. to learn more, hear participant testimonials, or sign up for a program. Together, let’s fight prostate cancer with every step, lift, and stretch.