Returning to Cycling After a Robotic-Assisted Robotic Prostatectomy
Returning to Cycling After a Robotic-Assisted Robotic Prostatectomy
There is robust evidence that staying physically active after treatment for prostate cancer reduces your risk of recurrence and increases survivorship. Many men have the goal of getting back into cycling after having their prostate removed, which is something our physios can offer support and guidance around. Physical activity such as cycling is a great way to reduce fatigue, improve bone health, sleep, cognitive abilities, and quality of life after cancer treatment.
This blog is your evidence based guide to returning to cycling, under the guidance of a pelvic floor physiotherapist
stage 1: stationary bike
Around 12 weeks after surgery, most men can get back on a stationary bike (or home trainer). We recommend this as a first step as it's more comfortable than a regular bike, and to avoid the unpredictable bumps and turns that come with being on a road or mountain bike. Start with 5 or 10 minutes of intervals no more than every 2nd day and build up gradually from there. Remember that you will have lost some leg strength and cardiovascular fitness so don’t go too hard too soon.
Stage 2: Road Cycling
When you are comfortable for 30 minutes or so on a stationary bike, you can think about progressing to your preferred bike outdoors, with a few adjustments such as:
- Considering a saddle with a perineum cut-out to reduce pressure on your perineum - see image top right
- Adjusting your saddle height (putting the saddle slightly lower will mean less pressure on the downstroke)
Start with short rides (30 minutes or so), on the flat, trying to avoid bumpy surfaces and hills initially if possible.
Pain in your perineum/abdomen or an increase in bladder leakage are signs that you need to ease off a little. Always give yourself at least one rest day between rides and think about adding in some cross-training to build up strength, mobility, and fitness. Swimming, walking, resistance training and pilates are all great options.
Stage 3: Pedal On
Once you can comfortably manage 30 minute rides, you can gradually increase the time and intensity (eg adding hills and speed). At each progression, if you experience any pain or bladder symptoms, reduce the time/intensity of your rides and check in with your physiotherapist for reassurance and guidance.
Support Along the Way:
The Pelvic Studio offers Men’s Health 4:1 exercise rehab groups, where you can work under the supervision of a physiotherapist on strength and flexibility to support your return to cycling. These classes are an excellent community for men with similar experiences, and a beneficial addition to support your ongoing cancer recovery. It’s never too early or too late to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist during your cancer journey. Our experienced physiotherapists are well-equipped to support men for all pelvic health concerns, particularly pre- and post-prostatectomy.
These classes are also an excellent community for men with similar experiences, and can be an excellent addition to support your ongoing cancer recovery.
If you have any questions, feel free to email the clinic at info@thepelvicstudio.com
References
Friedenreich M., Wang, Q., Neilson, H., Kopciuk, K., McGregor, S., & Courneya, K. (2016). Physical Activity and Survival After Prostate Cancer. European Urology, 70, 576-585.
Hayes, S., Newton, R., Spence, R., & Galvao, D. (2019). The Exercise and Sports Science Australia position statement: Exercise in cancer management. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 22, 1175-1199.