Helen is one of KBPT’s amazing personal trainers and, having been through her own cancer journey a few years ago, she is now a qualified cancer rehab specialist. In this blog, we talk to her about her experience and how she supports KBPT clients during their cancer treatment and recovery.
Why and how did you become a personal trainer?
I used to teach aerobics but always wanted to be a personal trainer so that I could work one-to-one with people. This had gone on the back burner when I’d moved to London and I was then diagnosed with breast cancer. When I recovered, I went back to working in catering but, after a while, I thought… it’s time! I qualified as a personal trainer in 2017 and joined KBPT straight away.
How did exercise help you on your cancer journey?
I was training for a marathon when I got my diagnosis and I kept exercising while having my treatment – I went for walks, short runs, cycled to medical appointments and did some kickboxing. It really helped me to cope with the side effects and to stay strong mentally. Having survived breast cancer, I wanted to help other people so, during the COVID-19 lockdown, I got my cancer rehab qualification.
What are the benefits of regular exercise for cancer patients?
Research shows that exercise is very important for recovery. Everyone’s situation is different but, if someone is having treatment or surgery, they need to be physically strong. Regular exercise can also help with the side effects of treatment, such as fatigue, and boost mental health.
How do you assess each client’s situation and create the best training plan?
I find out how much they exercised previously and what stage they are in their treatment. I also ask them to check with their oncologist and/or surgery team whether it’s OK for them to exercise. If they are having chemotherapy or radiotherapy, we plan their training schedule so it fits with their treatment schedule – for example, avoiding the days immediately after chemo when they might be especially tired.
What kind of support do you provide at KBPT?
KBPT is a team of empathetic women who offer truly personalised personal training. We ask lots of questions so we can create the best exercise plan and we won’t push anyone to their limits until they are fully recovered. If we arrive for a PT session and our client isn’t feeling great, we can just do gentle stretches or simply have a chat until they are ready to get moving.
Is there any type of exercise that should be avoided during cancer recovery?
As a general rule, we focus on low impact exercise and strength training (using light weights) that helps to improve mobility and flexibility. If someone has had surgery for breast cancer, we don’t do any strenuous upper body exercises. And, in some cases, heavy lifting should be avoided as there could be a risk of lymphedema.
This part of your job must be particularly rewarding – how does it make you feel?
It’s quite special to be there for someone on their cancer journey. I’ve supported several clients in this way, including people who have just come out of surgery and want to get their mobility back. Having gone through this myself, I know that recovery is the ultimate feeling. I didn’t let cancer stop me and I hope I can inspire other people to stay fit and healthy.
If you or someone you know might benefit from cancer rehab training, please get in touch with our founder Kate at kate@kbpersonaltraining.co.uk
