Why be more active?

Physical activity is important for many diseases. For people with cancer, research suggests that physical activity helps to cope with and recover from treatment, improves the long-term health of cancer survivors and can help reduce the risk of some types of cancer coming back. 

Research has shown that people with cancer who were active have better sleep, better general physical and mental health, less lymphoedema and improved self-image – all of which support the view that exercise is an important adjunct therapy in the management of cancer.

What is physical activity?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines physical activity as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure – including activities undertaken while working, playing, carrying out household chores and engaging in recreational pursuits.

Physical activity and exercise are often used to mean the same thing. However, exercise should be thought of as a subcategory of physical activity. Exercise is an activity that is planned, structured, repetitive and aims to improve or maintain one or more components of physical fitness.

Alongside the physiological challenges, cancer and its treatment can also bring on uncertainty and unpredictability. Physical activity can give you some control over your health and do something positive for yourself – and in most cases, you will feel the beneficial effects of activity immediately. 

Our understanding of the role and benefits of physical activity during and after cancer treatment has increased significantly over the past 20 years. Whereas long periods of rest were traditionally prescribed, it is now understood that regular physical activity can ease many of the adverse effects of cancer treatment, as well as boost recovery and improve quality of life. There are also positive benefits associated with being active before treatment begins.

It’s important to understand that many cancer survivors will become deconditioned following treatment or surgery and will subsequently have lower baseline exercise capacity. Therefore, starting or resuming activity should be gradual, progressive and tailored to the needs of the individual. However, in almost all cases, beginning a programme of light physical activity is safe.

Combined with healthy eating and positive mental health, regular physical activity before, during and after treatment can:

• Reduce cancer-related fatigue/tiredness – Regular physical activity can help improve energy levels and sleep patterns
• Improve heart and lung (cardiorespiratory) health – Aerobic activity can help combat some of the adverse effects of cancer treatment
• Maintain a healthy weight – Cancer-related fatigue combined with lower than usual activity levels may lead to weight gain. Being active before, during and after treatment can help you manage your weight and reduce the risk of developing joint problems. Those who lose weight during and after cancer treatment can benefit from resistance training to help rebuild muscle and strength 

• Improve mood – Many people feel overwhelmed following a cancer diagnosis and during treatment, often leading to feelings of uncertainty, anxiety and depression. Engaging in a positive behaviour such as physical activity can help you feel more in control and improve your confidence and mood

• Improve bone health – Resistance training and aerobic activities that are weight-bearing will help keep bones strong, reducing the risk of developing osteoporosis
• Improve mobility and balance