5 Answers to the Most Common Questions I get Asked as a CES - by Allison Goldsmith, OncoVieā„¢ Cancer Exercise Specialist
Apr 15, 2025Many people feel lost, confused, and defeated after receiving a cancer diagnosis. As a Cancer
Exercise Specialist I often get asked questions about how to incorporate exercise into a daily
routine. I’m here to answer your questions.
1. Am I allowed to exercise?
First of all, you should always consult with your oncologist prior to beginning an
exercise program. All Cancer Exercise Specialists require clearance from your doctor
before starting any workout.
2. Where do I begin?
Once you are cleared to workout, find a qualified cancer exercise specialist, physical
therapist, or personal trainer. Ask your oncologist for recommendations or search the
internet. Speak to multiple specialists to find your best match. Once you choose a
professional, share your medical history so we can do our due diligence to design a
safe and effective exercise program tailored for you. Be thorough, the more we know,
the better we can help you reach your goals and prevent injury.
3. Will I hurt myself if I exercise?
If you work with a professional, follow instructions, move slowly and in small bouts - then
no, you most likely will not get hurt. The key is to listen to your body. For example, if
the exercise is to lift your arms overhead, but you feel a sharp pain in your shoulder,
stop what you are doing and tell your CES. We will make modifications and
adjustments so that you are not in pain while still working toward your fitness goals.
4. How long should I workout for?
Any amount of movement is fantastic. If you’re up for a 10-minute gentle yoga flow,
that’s wonderful. If you feel like going for a 30-minute walk, that’s great too. If you have
no energy and want to take the day to relax, that is also important. The most important
thing to do is to listen to your body. It knows what it needs and will tell you.
5. What can I do to motivate myself to move?
Motivation is tough, especially when we don’t feel our best. There are a few tips that I
recommend and use myself:
A. Close your eyes and visualize how it will feel after you have completed the
workout. How does your body feel? Do you feel accomplished? Proud?
Empowered? Remember that feeling and start with a gentle warm-up.
B. Try a breathing exercise. Your CES will teach you different breathwork
techniques for before, during and after your workout.
C. Set a 5-minute timer and do your warm-up. When the timer goes off, decide if
you want to continue your workout or if you want to stop. Nine times out of ten,
you’ll want to keep going and if you stop, there’s no guilt. You gave it a try and
honored what your body needed.
I hope this blog helps you find the courage to start moving again. You’ve got this!
Allison Goldsmith is a NASM-certified personal trainer, CETI OncoVie™ Cancer Exercise Specialist, older adult fitness specialist, certified nutrition coach, and group fitness instructor. She is also a certified 200-hour yoga instructor.
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