Let's Talk About Exercise

I’ve known for a long time that the human body, or at least this one, needs a certain amount of movement to function, and even more to thrive. 

Studies have shown a link between high BMI and mortality/disease free survival from breast cancer. Adipose tissue is a source of estrogen, so it makes biological sense that if you have an estrogen-sensitive tumor and lots of tissue making estrogen, it’s not great for recurrence risk. 

I was diagnosed with breast cancer while training for my 5th Ironman. I was logging 12000+ meters of swimming and hours of biking each week - and I have breast cancer. I chose to see the power of exercise as what kept my cancer from spreading wildly, and the reason it wasn’t more aggressive. 

I got up and walked the day after my double mastectomy, and every day since. I went into it with a month of core and upper body strength work to recover faster. Yesterday, I did a plank for the first time in a month - and almost cried it felt so good. 

Some of the most badass breast cancer warriors I know are runners, triathletes, hikers, and yoga instructors. I believe the physical and mental strength of challenging yourself to be faster, go longer, or stretch farther is what makes them survivors. 

When I asked my oncologist what, if anything, I could do to prevent my cancer from coming back (besides hormone therapy), she said unequivocally “Exercise. Minimum 3 hours a week.” No problem, doc. 

I’ve come to terms with the fact that my body won’t be the same after menopause, on meds, and that it won’t be ready for the St. George 70.3 or Ironman Coeur d’Alene. I’m OK with giving myself time to heal, but exercise is definitely going to be part of that healing. 

I hope to be at the starting line of more than one local triathlon this year, and to see some friends at IM Boulder 70.3 in August. I am learning patience, respect for my body, and renewed appreciation for the benefits of exercise.