When you're diagnosed with cancer, exercise may not feel like a priority. It's common to think that rest is the only thing your body needs, or that physical activity should wait until treatment is over. However, research continues to show that appropriate physical activity can play an important role before, during and after cancer treatment.
Physical activity can help manage side effects, support recovery, improve wellbeing and, for some cancer types, may even help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Below are answers to some common misconceptions about exercise and cancer.
People should only rest during cancer treatment
Many people experience fatigue during cancer treatment and assume they should avoid physical activity altogether. While adequate rest and recovery are essential, long periods of inactivity can contribute to reduced fitness, muscle weakness, stiffness and loss of physical function.
Research shows that appropriate physical activity can help manage fatigue, improve cardiovascular fitness, maintain muscle strength, support bone health and enhance overall quality of life. It can also improve sleep quality and help reduce stress, anxiety and depression.
Exercise needs to be intense to provide benefits
One of the biggest misconceptions about exercise is that it only counts if it is strenuous or leaves you exhausted.
Benefits can start with simple, manageable movement. Simple exercises like walking, stretching, gentle resistance exercises, yoga, tai chi and other forms of activity can all contribute to health and wellbeing.
The most effective exercise program is often the one that someone can maintain consistently. Starting slowly and gradually building activity levels can be far more beneficial than attempting an intense program that feels overwhelming.
It's unsafe to exercise during treatment
Many people can exercise safely during treatment, although the type and intensity of activity may need to be adjusted to each individual.
Staying active during treatment can help maintain strength, physical function and quality of life. The goal is not to train harder, but to keep moving in a way that is safe and achievable.
Treatment side effects, surgical recovery, fatigue and other medical factors may influence what is appropriate at different times. It's important to discuss exercise plans with your treatment team and seek professional guidance when needed.
The same exercise program will suit everyone
A program that works well for one person may be inappropriate for someone else.
Factors such as the type of cancer, treatment received, side effects, existing health conditions and current fitness levels all need to be considered when making an exercise plan.
For example, someone recovering from surgery may have different needs to someone experiencing treatment-related fatigue or balance issues. An exercise program should be tailored to the individual rather than based on a standard plan. This is why Accredited Exercise Physiologists and other allied health professionals can play an important role in helping you find an approach that is both safe and effective.
Exercise only matters after treatment finishes
Exercise can be beneficial before, during and after treatment. In the lead-up to treatment, physical activity may help improve fitness and prepare the body for upcoming challenges.
During treatment, exercise can help people maintain strength, mobility and wellbeing. After treatment, it can support recovery and help people rebuild confidence and physical capacity.
Many studies have also linked physical activity with improved health outcomes and reduced risk of cancer recurrence for some cancer types. Rather than viewing exercise as something that begins once treatment ends, it can be considered a supportive strategy throughout.
Exercise is only for people who are already active
It's never too late to benefit from being active.
A common belief is that exercise is only helpful for people who were already fit before their diagnosis, when in reality, physical activity can be adapted to almost any starting point.
You can begin with simple, manageable activities such as walking, stretching or light household tasks, then gradually build from there. Even small amounts of movement can make a big difference to physical and mental wellbeing.
Finding Support
If you're considering becoming more active after a cancer diagnosis, start by speaking with your treatment team. Your doctor, physiotherapist or an Accredited Exercise Physiologist can help you understand what types of activity may be appropriate for your individual circumstances.
