Movement and Exercise in Oncology

Movement is increasingly recognised as an important component of evidence-based cancer care and rehabilitation.

Current research shows that appropriately prescribed physical activity can be beneficial before, during and after cancer treatment, helping to maintain or improve physical function, cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, quality of life and cancer-related fatigue. Both aerobic exercise and resistance training have demonstrated benefits, and current oncology guidelines recommend incorporating both into cancer care where medically appropriate.

Exercise should not be viewed simply as fitness or as a one-size-fits-all prescription: the type, intensity, duration and progression should be individualised according to a person's cancer diagnosis, treatment, symptoms, fitness level and other health conditions.

Looking at breast cancer specifically, a 2025 umbrella review of meta-analytic associations reported evidence that post-diagnosis physical activity is associated with lower all-cause mortality, lower recurrence, less cancer-related fatigue and improvements in mental health, strength and aerobic capacity. Association does not guarantee an individual outcome.