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Get My Top Exercise Questions Answered

Find the answers to your top exercise questions here.
Submit additional questions you may have and they may be featured in upcoming classes or videos!

Why Exercising During & After Cancer Treatment is Important

In this video, Nancy Campbell, MS, exercise physiologist at Dana-Farber, shares seven reasons why exercise is important for patients throughout their cancer journey.

Commonly Asked Questions

  • I am new to exercise and struggling with fatigue, which class should I start with?

    The Chair Yoga classes might be a great start. They are available both live on Zoom and previously recorded classes are in the Digital Library. We also have previously recorded Chair Stretch & Strength classes. In general, our classes are designed for most ability levels. You may also benefit from our Health Coaching Program, which you can find more information about on this page.

  • I have never done yoga before; do you offer a beginner’s class?

    You are welcome to join any of our yoga classes, no experience is necessary. Our instructors will walk you through the proper alignment of poses and offer modifications for all ability levels.

  • I was recently diagnosed with osteoporosis; can I attend classes at the Zakim Center?

    You may benefit from our Health Coaching Program. You will learn about what exercises you should focus on and any that you might need to modify. You can find more information about our Health Coaching program on this page.

  • I struggle with knee pain when I do squats, do you have any suggestions?

    There is a form breakdown on our website for doing a wall or chair squat. The video walks you through several modifications. We have several other form breakdown videos in our Digital Library that may help.

Zakim Center’s Health Coaching Program

Program Updates Coming Soon!

The journey to better wellness can be challenging in the midst of cancer treatment and beyond. Emerging research is showing that health coaching may have significant positive effects on helping individuals with chronic disease improve their quality of life, mood, and physical activity levels. Cancer patients in particular can gain valuable benefits from regular physical activity and exercise, including reducing fatigue, improving mood, reducing anxiety, and helping to maintain a healthy weight.

After our successful pilot program, we’re excited to be introducing a new version of our popular and impactful Health Coaching Program in the coming months to empower patients in making positive, sustainable behavioral changes to encourage more active and health lifestyle choices. This renewed program is designed to better meet the growing demand for individualized exercise support while expanding opportunities for peer connection and community. Based on eligibility, participants will work 1-on-1 with one of our coaches to establish their wellness goals, receive personalized exercise assessments and programming, and have the opportunity to participate in 1-on-1 or small group health coaching sessions to foster strength, wellness, and support during cancer treatment and beyond. This program will continue to be offered at no cost to Dana-Farber patients.

We will continue to provide updates on program details, timing, and eligibility on this site. You may also call the Zakim Center at 617-632-3322 for updated information. Thank you for your support and patience as we look to continue building a community that empowers each individual to optimize their well-being throughout their cancer journey.