A Review of Nia as an Exercise Option for Cancer Survivors

Nia is a fusion fitness program that blends elements from the dance arts, martial arts, and healing arts, creating a workout that is adaptable to all ages and fitness levels. As a nontraditional form of exercise, Nia integrates body, mind, and spirit as well as the five sensations of flexibility, agility, mobility, strength, and stability. Nia incorporates both cardiovascular and whole-body conditioning and is adaptable to those with a sedentary or active lifestyle, making it useful for the varying abilities of cancer survivors. Oncology nurses are in a key position to educate individuals with cancer on the benefits of exercise, such as improved physical functioning and quality of life, and decreased cancer-related fatigue. The purpose of this article is to familiarize oncology nurses with the potential benefits of Nia for cancer survivors.