Dragon Boat Races Benefit Breast Cancer Survivors
CNN reports some modern-day breast cancer survivors are feeling better thanks to an ancient Chinese sport: dragon boat racing.
The vibrantly colored dragon boats get their name from the fierce dragon heads mounted at their helm. Today’s 40-ft vessels hold 20 paddlers who, like their ancient predecessors, maintain their rowing speed to the powerful beat of a massive drum. The traditional Chinese sport dates back more than 2000 years, but has just recently spread to the United States.
In addition to gaining popularity as an exciting spectator sport, dragon boat racing is catching on with breast cancer survivors who’ve discovered paddling these crafts through water can help them recover from the lingering side effects of treatments.
Organizers of breast cancer rowing teams report paddling increases strength, improves range of motion, reduces pain, and provides relief from chronic symptoms of lymphedema. The practice sessions also keep team members exercising regularly, a practice shown to improve cancer survival rates.
Approximately two dozen breast cancer survivor dragon boat teams currently compete around the United States. Besides the physical and recreational benefits, boat racing can also improve mental health by boosting self confidence. Survivors who participate in the races say the experience is like attending a floating support group. As one said,
“They know what I’ve been through. I know what they’ve been through. If you want to talk about cancer, you can and if you don’t want to talk about cancer, you don’t have to.”
Beverly Booth
Breast Cancer Survivor and
Captain, Steel Magnolias Dragon Boat Team
While the sport can be a lot of fun, survivors are cautioned to check with their doctor before they begin paddling or other exercise programs. (If you’re OK’d to participate, remember to ask your provider if you need to restrict your paddling to a specific side of the boat. This may be a necessary precaution for some individuals.)
If you’d like to read about other ways to improve your health after cancer, you can check out Nutrition and Physical Activity During and After Cancer Treatment from the American Cancer Society.
Source: CNN.com
Related Links: Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival Atlanta; cbcnews.ca; Susan G Komen for the Cure
Tags: Atlanta; complimentary and alternative medicine; fitness; holistic health; mastectomy; natural remedies; outdoor recreation; cancer pain management; physical therapy; rehabilitation; survivorship; weight control; women’s health
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