Pilates training can be an excellent way to achieve the postural re-education and muscle-balancing necessary to recover from the side effects of breast cancer treatment. Pilates can help alleviate pain from breast cancer operative procedures, restore joint mobility and tissue integrity, and help regain lost strength. Most importantly, Pilates can be a gateway for a true “Return to Life” for many women, as the title of Joseph Pilates’ popular book states.

Breast cancer recovery is a delicate time, a time to be respected for the hard-won healing that is taking place, as well as the physical and emotional complexities that may arise. Women recovering from breast cancer face many challenges, not only in getting their strength and energy back, but in many cases, strengthening their self-confidence.

Fatigue, limited range of motion, and even fear of moving sore areas may make a woman shy away from exercise. The right kind of exercise, though, guided by trained professionals, can be of great benefit for women recovering from breast cancer.  One of the best things about exercise is that it can be relaxing and energizing at the same time. Women in recovery are often fighting stress and fatigue. Increasing energy levels and reducing stress, then, are very important — as they are for most of us. In addition, regaining strength and range of motion in the chest, shoulders, back and arms will help a woman care for herself and resume her normal life. Gaining independence also goes a long way toward a sense of emotional empowerment.