Exercise For Cancer Patients And Post-Cancer Treatment

Recovering from cancer isn’t just about surviving—it’s about reclaiming your life and your strength, step by step.

Whether you're currently undergoing treatment or have recently completed it, your body has endured a battle, and now it's time to gently rebuild.

You might be feeling tired, fragile, or unsure where to start. But here’s the truth: the right kind of movement can be one of the most powerful tools in your recovery.

Research continues to show that regular, tailored exercise improves energy levels, boosts mood, supports immune function, and even reduces the risk of cancer recurrence.

Benefits of exercise for cancer patients and post-cancer treatment

1. Reduces cancer-related fatigue (CRF)

This is one of the most commonly cited benefits. Even light exercise can significantly improve energy levels.

2. Improves physical function and strength

Helps maintain or increase muscle mass and bone density, which can be diminished by treatment.

3. Enhances quality of life

Reduces anxiety, depression, and stress, and improves mood, self-esteem, and sleep quality.

4. Manages treatment side effects

It can help with issues like nausea, pain, lymphedema (in breast cancer), and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

5. May reduce the risk of recurrence

Some studies suggest that physical activity can lower the risk of certain cancers returning and improve overall survival, particularly for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers.

6. Reduces the risk of other chronic diseases

Helps maintain a healthy weight and lowers the risk of developing conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis.

7. Boost the immune system

Regular physical activity can strengthen your immune system.

8. Improves appetite

It can help with appetite issues that sometimes arise during treatment.

General exercise guidelines for cancer patients and post-cancer treatment

1. Consult your healthcare team

Always get clearance from your doctor or oncology team before starting or changing your exercise routine. They can advise on appropriate intensity, type, and any precautions based on your specific cancer type, treatment, side effects, and overall health.

2. Start slowly and progress gradually

This is key. If you've been inactive or are experiencing significant fatigue, begin with short, low-intensity activities (e.g., 5-10 minutes of slow walking) and gradually increase duration, intensity, or frequency as your body allows.

3. Listen to your body

Some days you'll have more energy than others. It's important not to overdo it, as this can lead to increased fatigue or pain. Exercise should not cause new pain, nausea, or dizziness.

4. Consistency is key

Even small, consistent efforts are better than sporadic, intense workouts.

5. Aim for a mix of exercise types

A well-rounded program includes aerobic, strength, flexibility, and balance exercises.

Recommended types of exercise for cancer patients and post-cancer treatment

1. Aerobic exercise (cardio)

 Activities that make you breathe harder and increase your heart rate.

• Examples

Brisk walking (indoors or outdoors), light jogging, cycling (stationary or outdoor), swimming, dancing, water aerobics.

• Guidelines
  • During treatment: Start with what you can tolerate, even short bursts of 2-10 minutes multiple times a day.
    
  • Post-treatment/survivorship: Aim for 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week. This can be broken down into 30-minute sessions, 5 days a week.
    
  • For fatigue: Aerobic exercises like walking, running, cycling, and swimming are particularly effective for managing cancer-related fatigue.

2. Strength training (resistance exercise)

Activities that make your muscles stronger.

• Examples
  • Bodyweight exercises: Squats, chair stands, push-ups (against a wall or on the floor), lunges, sit-ups, heel lifts.
  • With equipment: Lifting light weights (dumbbells, ankle weights), using resistance bands, and gym machines.
    
• Guidelines
  • Aim for 2-3 sessions per week, targeting major muscle groups.
  • Start with light resistance and 10-15 repetitions until comfortable, then progress to 8-12 repetitions at a moderate to hard effort.
  • Perform 2-3 sets of each exercise.
    
• Precautions: If you have bone metastases or low platelet counts, discuss the safety of strength training with your oncologist. Avoid exercises that cause twisting of the spine if advised.

3. Flexibility and balance exercises

These help improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, and prevent falls.

• Examples
  • Stretching: Gentle static stretches (holding a stretch for 15-30 seconds), dynamic stretches (controlled movements through a full range of motion).
    
  • Yoga: Many styles are beneficial, particularly Hatha, Yin, or Restorative yoga, which are slower-paced and emphasise mind-body connection. Yoga can help with anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain, and sleep.
    
  • Pilates: Focuses on core strength, muscular balance, and flexibility. It's often recommended for breast cancer recovery to improve shoulder mobility and reduce scar tissue issues. Start gently, especially post-surgery.
    
  • Tai Chi: Uses slow movements and deep breathing, helpful for balance and anxiety reduction.

Final thoughts

Remember, the goal is to integrate physical activity into your daily life in a way that feels sustainable and beneficial for you. 

Even small steps can make a significant difference in your recovery and long-term well-being.

Book an appointment with one of our highly qualified physiotherapists at Enhance Physio before starting a rehabilitation program. We can advise you on the best course of action for your condition.