When you start your exercise program, you might experience some fatigue, dizziness or even nausea. Discuss any problems with your doctor or physical therapist. But these side effects usually pass fairly quickly.
Working Through the Stages A graduated program may take you through three stages:
• Stage 1—Beginning to Move Exercises. These are simple exercises that help you maintain and increase your
range of motion. They don't require much exertion and can be done while you are lying in bed.
• Stage 2—Increased Activity Exercises. A small weight (up to 1 kg/2 lb.) is used to increase resistance . These
exercises can be done when you are spending part of the day out of bed sitting in a chair.
• Stage 3—Up and About Exercises. These exercises will build up your strength when you are able to stand,
walk and spend the whole day out of bed. (For more detailed information, consult Rehabilitation Exercises for
the Cancer Patient, by Ernest Rosenbaum, Francine Manuel, Judith Bray, Isadora Rosenbaum and Arthur Cerf,
available from Bull Publishing, PO Box 208, Palo Alto, California 94302.)
Setting a Regular Routine Once you are back on your feet and approaching your normal level of activity, you can establish a set routine, naturally within any limitations or restrictions identified by your doctor. A very enjoyable workout program can be created.
• Aerobic programs are very helpful. You take your pulse before beginning, then take it again halfway through
and at the end of the routine. The aim is to roughly double your heart rate, although your physician may set a
