Exercise & Cancer

The positive link between the benefits of exercises and cancer continues to grow as more research is released. There is evidence which outlines that individuals who are physically active have a decreased risk to some cancers such as bowl and lung cancer. Exercise has also been linked to aiding in the recovery and improving long term survival rates after a diagnosis.

The benefits of exercise include an increase in muscle mass, range of motion, immune function, mood and self esteem. There is also evidence to say an exercise regime may increase chemotherapy completion rate, decrease hospitalisation and help to reduce stress. Exercise can also help in decreasing the risk of developing secondary conditions such as cardiovascular disease which is a common occurrence in cancer survivors.

How much exercise is recommended?

The aim is to meet physical activity guidelines for the general population which is:

• at least 150 minutes of moderate- intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming each week; and

• two to three resistance exercise sessions each week

During treatment or after surgery these guidelines may seem difficult to achieve, there may also be some barriers to exercise getting in they way such as treatment related side effects like fatigue.

It is best to slowly introduce planned aerobic and resistance based exercises which may include walking and theraband exercises and increase as tolerated, remembering that even a small amount of movement is better than none.

A well designed individualised program will take into consider all of these barriers and have a plan on how to safely get you back to moving well. Our team of allied health professionals can work closely with your specialist to ensure optimal outcomes are reached. For more information or to book in with one of our Accredited Exercise Physiologist call the clinic on 9284 4405 or book online here.