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Real members of MyLymphomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

On bendamustine / rituximab how careful do you have to be? Can I still go to the gym and do my team paddling sports? Assuming I have energy!

A MyLymphomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Auckland, NZ
September 3
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A MyLymphomaTeam Member

I had 6 cycles of Bendumustine/Rituximab last year- 4 weeks apart- slowed me down for a week or two after each infusion but then pretty much normal activity.
Extra careful re picking up an infection though

September 3
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

@A MyLymphomaTeam Member I went through 2 rounds of BR, and continued working full-time as a 6th grade teacher. I planned my infusions on Thursday & Friday, every 3 weeks, and usually returned to work on Monday-Wednesday of the next week. I was nauseous and very tired, but it kept me going and gave little time to dwell on things. I never wore a mask, and made it through without getting any illnesses, except maybe a cold. I don't see why you can't carry on, as long as you feel up to it. In fact, I think keeping your strength up will help in the long term!
Julie 💜 ✝️

September 3
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

I was on the same BR treatment as you and I held down a full time job as fourth grade teacher. It kept me from obsessing about cancer. I did have to mask in winter, and missed 1-2 days of school per month, but I’m glad I kept my job and my focus.

September 3
MyLymphomaTeam

Staying active during treatment is genuinely beneficial — it can help with energy, mood, appetite, and pain management. The good news is that most people with lymphoma can continue exercising, but there are some important things to keep in mind while on bendamustine/rituximab.

Before continuing or changing your routine Show Full Answer

Staying active during treatment is genuinely beneficial — it can help with energy, mood, appetite, and pain management. The good news is that most people with lymphoma can continue exercising, but there are some important things to keep in mind while on bendamustine/rituximab.

Before continuing or changing your routine, check in with your doctor. Here are the key cautions to be aware of:

- Infection risk — Rituximab suppresses your immune system, so crowded gyms or public pools may expose you to infection. Outdoor exercise is a great alternative when possible.
- Bleeding/bruising risk — Bendamustine can lower platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), which increases bruising and bleeding risk. Contact or high-impact activities carry more risk here.
- Balance and grip issues — Peripheral neuropathy (numbness in hands/feet) can affect your stability, so choose activities where a fall is less likely.
- Shortness of breath — Chemotherapy can affect your heart and lungs, so monitor how you feel during exertion. As for team paddling sports, this is worth a specific conversation with your doctor. Paddling involves grip strength, balance on water, and potential for falls — all of which could be concerns depending on your blood counts and neuropathy. It's also a team environment, which could mean infection exposure.

The gym is likely more manageable — a stationary bike or treadmill (with something to hold onto) are considered safer options. Low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, or hiking are generally better choices than contact or high-risk sports.

A MyLymphomaTeam member shared that even during intense chemo, they found ways to adapt — doing pilates and stretching in bed on harder days, and working with a physical therapist for modified exercises. Every bit of movement counts!

September 3

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