A breast cancer diagnosis brings numerous challenges, a rollercoaster of emotions, time away from work, adjustments to daily routines, and many side effects.
One of the last things many people think about during treatment is regular exercise. However, it’s important to discuss why exercise matters, how it can help, and what it means for the long term. Staying active is a vital part of managing breast cancer, both during and after treatment.
Regular exercise can help with:
- Preserving lean muscle mass
- Maintaining Bone Mineral Density (BMD)
- Managing and reducing cancer-related fatigue
- Boosting mood
- Improving aerobic fitness
- Enhancing flexibility and mobility, particularly after surgery or reconstruction
- Stimulating appetite and reducing nausea, a frequent side effect of chemotherapy
- Improving outcomes during and after treatment
- Reducing the overall severity of side effects
- Promoting a sense of connection and social interaction
How Much Exercise is Recommended?
The amount and intensity of exercise will vary depending on the individual’s treatment plan and physical abilities. The key is that any activity is better than none.
The general recommendation for individuals with breast cancer is:
- to progress towards 150 minutes/ week of moderate intensity, or 75 minutes/ week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, AND
- 2 to 3 resistance training sessions per week of moderate to vigorous intensity
What Type of Exercise is Best?
Again, anything is better than nothing. Choose something you enjoy! Use this time to step away from medical appointments and focus on yourself. Any kind of physical activity is beneficial, so try out different options to find what suits you. Whether it’s a walk with a friend, a yoga or Pilates class, swimming, or a session with an exercise physiologist, the goal is to stay active.
Things to Watch Out For
Lymphedema, which is swelling of the arm or upper body, can affect women who have had lymph nodes removed or damaged during surgery. The good news is that exercise and regular movement can lower the risk of developing lymphedema and help manage symptoms for those who experience it. Resistance / Strength training has been proven to be a safe and effective form of exercise for patients with or at risk of Breast Cancer Related Lymphoedema
Starting slow is key to recovery, and building up gradually will benefit you on many levels. Weight gain after diagnosis is common due to treatment and reduced activity, but regular exercise can help manage weight and maintain muscle mass, improving strength and function.
What Barriers Might I Face, and How Can I Overcome Them?
- Financial Concerns
Find an exercise option that fits your budget to make it a sustainable part of your routine without adding financial stress. Outdoor activities like walking or jogging in a park are free and effective. Many local councils also offer low-cost or free programs like walking groups, tai chi, or yoga.
You might also be eligible for rebates through your private health insurance if you see an accredited exercise physiologist, so consider this when researching providers.
- Side Effects of Treatment
Fatigue and nausea are common side effects during cancer treatment. However, research shows that even small amounts of structured exercise can ease these symptoms, sometimes even boosting energy. Choose a time to exercise that works best for you; if mornings are tough due to fatigue or nausea, try an afternoon routine.
Oncology providers should recommend aerobic and resistance exercises during active treatment with curative intent. best practice in cancer care is to include referral to an exercise physiologist/ or physiotherapist with experience in cancer care.
Cancer patients need to advocate for referrals to exercise health professionals.
The evidence is so strong now that cancer patients deserve this medicine. Withholding exercise from cancer patients is probably harmful.
