"Life will not be the same as before cancer treatment"

It certainly doesn't mean life will be bad, but it will be different. One of the things many cancer survivors go through after completing treatment is getting to know their body all over again. You may have gained or lost weight, lost hair all over your body, lost muscle mass, gained scars and maybe even lost a body part.

In addition, many cancer survivors experience late effects of treatment, such as fatigue, neuropathy, lymphoedema or pain. All these symptoms can make it challenging to be physically active, even though we know that being active can alleviate these symptoms.

In my job as a nurse at the Radium Hospital for 22 years, we didn't talk much to the patients about physical activity, they had to get through the treatment and afterwards they were in many ways left to their own devices.

Today, Kreftkompasset runs a digital network for 80 cancer survivors, many of whom are keen to be physically active because it gives them mastery, energy and relieves many of the ailments they feel after treatment. Some say that the only thing that keeps their fatigue at bay is exercising, not very hard, but often and regularly.

It's not just physically that many cancer survivors benefit from exercise, many also feel stronger mentally when their bodies are stronger. Something that's very important when you're going for check-ups and experiencing fear of recurrence, and in other challenging situations in life.

"Today I woke up at 6 a.m., and instead of lying in bed thinking about it, I got up and joined "Morning yoga", which was a good start to the day."

Cancer survivors in the Cancer Compass network

Many in the Kreftkompasset network have started using Naardic. Why does it work so well for cancer survivors to participate in physical activities digitally?

- Your body is unpredictable and you can suddenly run out of energy, so you don't know if you'll be able to participate until the session is over. Cancelling with a PT right before class time after time doesn't feel good. With Naardic, you have the session available for a whole week.

- Many people don't feel comfortable going to the gym after their body has changed and they're out of shape. With Naardic, you're seen by no-one other than the trainer (or no-one at all) and it feels safe.

- Just changing into your workout clothes and getting to the fitness centre can deplete your energy stores. Now you can work out on the sofa or the kitchen floor.

- Being seen and greeted by a trainer when you "come in" to the class feels very pleasant and safe. It contributes to making training a positive experience.

- You can leave a lesson at any time if you are unable to complete it, and possibly complete the last part later.

- You become part of a community, even if you're at home, something many cancer survivors miss.

- Many cancer survivors are sensitive to sounds and can't stay in a fitness centre for more than a few minutes.

"I've just completed a "yoga for everyone" class. The sweat is pouring and I'm delighted. I've also taken strength and conditioning, pilates and meditation classes in the past. It's really nice when you can participate directly, the instructor uses your name and talks to the participants. You feel part of a community at home in your own living room. What's more, it's great that you can attend recorded classes whenever it suits you. Simply brilliant!"

Cancer survivors in the Cancer Compass network:

Giving cancer survivors the opportunity to participate in physical activities at Naardic is one of the finest and most important things we can give to our members!