Should You Really Exercise When You Have Cancer?

A cancer diagnosis can often turn your life upside down in many ways. Treatments including chemotherapy, radiation and various surgeries can bring both physical and emotional challenges. These can range from extreme fatigue and muscle loss to depression and anxiety. Understandably, the idea of exercising can feel like it may be counterintuitive or even impossible to complete. Despite this, growing research has proven that exercise and cancer work hand in hand. Exercise in fact, is now being recommended as a key part of cancer care (Exercise and Sports Science Australia, 2023). Not only is it about staying active, but also supporting your body through treatment to help manage side effects and symptoms. This can help improve overall quality of life and even enhance treatment outcomes. 

So, should you really be exercising when you are undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment? In most cases, the answer is yes. However, it’s important to note, as with any condition, it does depend on the person and their individual circumstances. 

A shift in perspective 

In the past, cancer patients were advised to rest and avoid overexerting themselves during treatment. While it is still important to rest and recover, especially during intensive therapies, current research suggests that too much rest can lead to further loss of muscle, reduced cardiovascular function, and even worsened fatigue. 

Nowadays, there is a strong belief that exercise is a form of medicine. Leading cancer organisations, including the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia, now endorse exercise as a standard component of cancer treatment and recommend it be an adjunct therapy to help counteract the adverse effects of cancer and its treatment. Guidelines recommend that all people with cancer should aim to be as physically active as their capacity and condition allow, with the ability of individualised programs and supervision to be prescribed by exercise professionals. 

Benefits of exercise during cancer 

• Reduced cancer-related fatigue 

Fatigue is known to be the most commonly reported side effect of cancer treatment. Unlike usual tiredness, this kind of fatigue doesn’t always improve with rest. Research has found that regular moderate-intensity exercise is more effective than resting in reducing cancer-related fatigue. 

• Improves physical function and strength

Those going through cancer treatments tend to see a high prevalence in muscle loss, reduced cardiovascular fitness and joint stiffness. A targeted and individualised exercise program helps to maintain and rebuild muscle mass, improve mobility and flexibility, and improve heart and lung function. 

• Supports mood and mental health 

Exercise causes a release in endorphins, feel good hormones that assist with anxiety, depression and stress. For many people with cancer, regular exercise can help build structure, a sense of control and improved mood into their life during a time of great uncertainty. 

• Can improve treatment tolerance 

Studies have found that those who exercise regularly during cancer treatment may experience fewer side effects and complications. There is also some evidence to suggest that some patients who are physically active may have improved chemotherapy completion rates. 

• Role in survival and recurrence 

While research is still ongoing, regular exercise has been linked with a reduced risk of recurrence and improved survival in some cancers. This includes breast, colorectal and prostate cancers. Regular exercise also decreases your risk of developing other chronic conditions which are associated with cancer treatment as well as ageing, including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and hypertension. 

Exercise recommendations for those with cancer

The most appropriate exercise program will depend on a multitude of factors. These may include type and stage of cancer, current treatment, surgery site, physical condition and pre-existing health conditions. Working with an exercise professional who is trained in cancer rehabilitation is crucial to ensure all of these factors are addressed safely and appropriately. 

Despite individualised exercise needing to be a key consideration, there are general exercise guidelines for cancer that have been recommended by governing bodies and associations. These don’t differ too much from the general exercise guidelines for the healthy population, although considerations will need to be made from person to person. 

It is recommended that you progress towards completing a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise across the week (American Cancer Society, 2020). This should include a combination of aerobic, strength, flexibility and balance exercise, where strength training should be completed at least twice weekly. Here are the benefits and some examples of these modes of exercise: 

• Aerobic: exercises including walking, swimming and cycling help improve your cardiovascular fitness, increase your heart and lung function and reduce fatigue 
• Strength: exercises that use weights, resistance bands or bodyweight can help build muscle mass, increase bone density and improve metabolism 
• Flexibility: gentle stretching exercises, including yoga, can improve mobility and promote relaxation 
• Balance: specific balance training, including Tai Chi or single-leg stance, is vital in preventing falls 

Listening to what your body needs

It is important to remember to listen to your body. Your body has been through a lot, and some days will be harder than others. It’s okay to rest when you need to. The key is consistency, not intensity. Start small, even with 5-10 minutes per day, and build when you can. 

Despite these recommendations, there are times when exercise might not be appropriate or recommended. Here are some cancer-specific examples: 

• During active infections of fever 
• When experiencing severe fatigue, dizziness or nausea 
• With low blood counts 
• Following surgery or with certain bone metastases  

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, ensure to consult your healthcare team and reach out to an exercise professional for clearance and assistance in navigating these changes. 

The role of exercise professionals for clinical exercise 

Exercise physiologists and exercise professionals who specialise in cancer treatment are trained to develop evidence-based exercise programs that are individualised to the needs of each individual with a chronic condition, including cancer. They are able to assess your current fitness capacity, medical history, treatment plan and goals to create a safe, appropriate and effective exercise program for you. At Longevity Health and Fitness, we work closely with our clients’ healthcare teams to ensure that every exercise program complements your treatment and supports your recovery. 

Feel strong and energised through movement 

Exercise and cancer treatment can coexist, and it is recommended that they do. While each person’s cancer journey is unique, the evidence is clear that moving your body in a safe, structured and supportive way can lead to better outcomes and a higher quality of life. Let exercise be a form of self-care during your recovery. 

If you or a loved one is navigating a cancer diagnosis and wondering how to safely incorporate exercise into your routine, our team at Longevity Health and Fitness are here to help. Contact us today for a personalised consultation and start the journey towards a stronger and more energised version of you.