It is common for cancer fighters to believe that physical activity is not recommended during cancer treatment (especially chemotherapy and radiotherapy) due to the possibility of growing cancer cells. However, research has shown that for most cancer fighters, exercise is safe during cancer treatment for the following benefits:
- Reduce treatment side effects (constipation)
- Reduce cancer-related fatigue
- Improve muscle strength and endurance
- Improve immune function
- Increase appetite
- Help lessen depression and anxiety
- May help with breast cancer-related lymphedema
We aim to stay as active as we can, while maintaining physical functions and preventing loss of endurance and strength. It is fine to start physical activity slowly and build up the amount over time. Here are the physical activity recommendations for cancer fighters:
| Type | Examples | Recommendations |
| Moderate-intensity aerobic * | Brisk walking, leisure cycling, leisure swimming | 30 minutes daily for 5 days per week |
| Vigorous-intensity aerobic * | Jogging, fast cycling, fast swimming, aerobic dance | 75 minutes per week |
| Resistance training | Dumbbell, wall squat, wall push-up, resistance band | At least 2 times per week |
* To perform either activity
Cancer fighters can simply stay active with daily house chores, walking a dog in the park, using the staircase instead of elevator or escalator, or even getting off the bus several stops early and walking the rest of the way. It is important to listen to your body and decide on the frequency and intensity of exercise intensity: start small (10 to 15 minutes), then gradually increase the time until the recommended activity is achieved.
Always check with your oncologist or physiotherapist before starting any exercise if you have any of the following:
- Heart or lung disease
- Ostomy bag (swimming is not recommended)
- Numbness and tingling in hands or feet (suggest to use a stationary bike)
- Low immunity (avoid exercising in public gyms)
- Bone metastases (avoid excessive stress on bones)
- Radiotherapy (swimming is not recommended if having skin sores)
References
- American Cancer Society. (2022, March 16). Physical activity and the person with cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/survivorship/be-healthy-after-treatment/physical-activity-and-the-cancer-patient.html
- Cancer Research UK. (2019, December 13). Exercise guidelines for cancer patients. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping/physically/exercise-guidelines
- Rajarajeswaran, P., & Vishnupriya, R. (2009). Exercise in cancer. Indian Journal of Medical and Paediatric Oncology, 30(02), 61–70. https://doi.org/10.4103/0971-5851.60050
