Exercise and Cancer

Regular physical activity is a safe and important part of cancer care. Research consistently shows that exercise can improve treatment tolerance, reduce side effects, and enhance overall wellbeing for people living with cancer. Exercise can be adapted to all fitness levels, ages, and stages of treatment, and even gentle movement can make a meaningful difference.

Why Exercise Matters During Cancer Treatment

Cancer and its treatments can lead to fatigue, muscle loss, reduced physical function, anxiety, and changes in mood. Appropriate exercise can help to:

• Reduce cancer-related fatigue
• Improve strength, flexibility, and endurance
• Maintain muscle mass and functional independence
• Support mental wellbeing and reduce anxiety or depression
• Improve sleep quality
• Enhance tolerance to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation
• Support heart and bone health
• Improve overall quality of life

In some cancers, regular exercise has also been shown to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve long-term survival.

Types of Exercise That May Help

A balanced approach typically includes:

• Aerobic exercise: walking, cycling, swimming, gentle jogging
• Strength or resistance training: light weights, resistance bands, body-weight exercises
• Flexibility and mobility: stretching, yoga, Pilates
• Balance training: helpful for older adults or those experiencing neuropathy

Your exercise program should be tailored to your energy levels, treatment schedule, and any physical limitations.

Safety Considerations

Most people can safely exercise during treatment, but it is important to:

• Start slowly and build up gradually
• Listen to your body and rest when needed
• Avoid high-impact or strenuous activity during periods of low immunity or severe
fatigue
• Seek guidance if you have bone disease, neuropathy, recent surgery, breathlessness, or cardiac concerns

Our oncology team can advise you on safe levels of activity based on your clinical circumstances.

Support From Trained Exercise Professionals

We work closely with exercise physiologists and physiotherapists who specialise in cancer rehabilitation. They can design a personalised program to help you:

• Maintain fitness during treatment
• Manage fatigue, weakness, pain, or mobility issues
• Recover after surgery or intensive therapies
• Transition into long-term survivorship with confidence

Referrals to accredited exercise professionals can be arranged through our practice.

https://www.cynergyalliedhealth.com.au/

https://www.ramsayhealthplus.com.au/

https://chroniccare.com.au/

A Personalised Approach

Your exercise plan should fit your lifestyle, preferences, and treatment stage. Even small amounts of regular activity can lead to meaningful improvements in health and wellbeing. Walking, gentle strength training, and guided exercises can all be adapted to your day-to-day needs.