This might be the steroids talking...okay this is definitely the steroids talking.
I am going to try to GAIN MUSCLE MASS during my chemo and radiation treatment. My doctors all say it's important that I stay active and maintain a healthy diet during my treatment, and so in addition to my physiotherapy, I thought I could challenge myself to try to gain muscle.
My tumour affects my balance and vision, but with careful modifications and making sure I monitor my workouts, I think I'll be able to do it. Plus Andy works out with me and is right there if something should happen, so I know I'll have the support I need.
I've never posted a picture like this on the internet before, but here's my before picture (this is actually from January, and I started working out a lot in August). My starting weight is 141.6lbs or 64.2kg and I am 172cm tall or 5'7.5".
My goal is to gain 5bs of muscle over the course of the treatment. It doesn't seem like a lot, but I think if I can manage to not LOSE weight that will be huge. Also, I was reading that women tend to only be able to gain 1lb of muscle a month, but I think I have an advantage on account of the steroids.
I plan on doing a combination of walking, weight training, and HIIT. We have yoga mats and dumbells up to 15lbs, so we might have to invest in some heavier weights.
My doctors tell me that for now, I'm not allowed to do anything that could put me or those around me in danger if I were to have a seizure (they don't think I'm going to have a seizure but it's a precaution they take when you have a brain tumour I guess), so biking, swimming, and running are off-limits. I'm also not allowed to drive which SUCKS. I love driving. But anyway, I need to stick to activities where at least one foot is planted on the ground at all times, so I'll have to plan my workouts very carefully!
I have just been gifted a smartwatch that I'm going to use to monitor my workouts and if you want to follow along I use this free app called FitOn to track my progress!
I'll leave you with this question: Do you think I'm going to make gains during my treatment?? 💪💪💪💪
which way to the beach?
What an amazing attitude you have! That is more than half the battle you are about to face! Cautionary note, however...corticosteroids (I'm assuming you are on this type) vs male hormone steroids...not the same thing. Anabolic steroids that people take to build muscle vs catabolic steroids (dexamethasone/prednisone etc) that can cause muscle weakness long term...emphasis on long term! Depends of course, on your dose and length of time you are on them. Usually you are on a higher dose short term and then they try to either get you off of them or maintain you at the lowest possible dose to avoid any side effects. So that's good news! Just don't want you to set yourself up for disappointment if…
Absolutely, you have the drive and the determination to do so, you are like me and you rise to the challenge. I am so happy and grateful that you have Andy there for you! You got this lady! <3