Cancer warrior Manisha Koirala on rebuilding fitness: ‘It’s always a team effort’

Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala, who battled stage 4 ovarian cancer, recently revealed her fitness regimen on Instagram, emphasizing that "it's always a team effort." Dr Supriya Patil, a physiotherapist at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai, explains that rebuilding fitness for cancer survivors encompasses more than just physical appearance. It involves regaining strength, endurance, confidence, and the ability to perform daily tasks independently.

Resistance training, which involves working muscles against an external force, can aid in addressing muscle weakness and physical deconditioning caused by cancer treatment. Dr Patil highlights that this type of exercise can help improve strength and physical function, making activities like climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, carrying groceries, or reaching overhead less challenging.

However, before starting any workout routine, cancer survivors should consider several factors. First, they should undergo an individualized assessment based on their medical status, rather than their age or treatment completion. Next, they should begin with light exercises and progressively increase intensity, ensuring technique and monitoring symptoms. Shorter sessions with lower resistance and planned rest periods may be more manageable for those experiencing fatigue.

Bone health is crucial for survivors with bone metastases, osteoporosis, or a history of fractures. Resistance training should be adapted to avoid heavy lifting, high-impact exercises, forceful twisting, or loaded bending. In the case of lymphedema, a condition that can develop after certain cancer treatments, starting with low resistance, progressing gradually, and monitoring for swelling or discomfort is essential.

Survivors with cardiovascular complications or treatment-related issues should also have their exercise plans reviewed by their medical team.

Lastly, proper technique and breathing should be prioritized, particularly for those experiencing treatment-related neuropathy or unsteadiness. While a celebrity's workout can provide inspiration, it should not be treated as a one-size-fits-all rehabilitation plan. Always consult a health and fitness practitioner before starting any routine.