Growing evidence suggests that regular exercise is beneficial during and after cancer treatment. Individualised and structured exercise programmes can help conquer some of the common side effects of treatment and can provide several positive outcomes such as; 

• Increased energy levels and reduced fatigue 
• Improvements in strength, flexibility, heart and lung function 
• Improvements in mood, cognitive function, and identity 
• The management of body composition 
• Preventing long-term side effects on cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, endocrine, immune, and neurological systems. 

Dealing with cancer and its treatments can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, both physically and emotionally. Finding ways to support your well-being is crucial, and research has shown that exercise can be a powerful tool in your arsenal. Let's explore some fascinating findings on how exercise can positively impact cancer patients.

A study by the American Society of Clinical Oncology focused on breast cancer patients and found that those who engaged in moderate-intensity aerobic and resistance exercises for three hours a week experienced remarkable improvements in physical function, quality of life, and fatigue compared to those in the control group. Similarly, research by the University of Sydney demonstrated that exercise can effectively reduce fatigue, depression, and anxiety in cancer patients, improving their overall well-being.

But exercise isn't just beneficial for the body and can improve cognitive function. The University of Alberta found that breast cancer patients who participated in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for 45 minutes three times a week experienced notable enhancements in cognitive function. Furthermore, the American College of Sports Medicine reviewed several studies involving different cancer types and exercise interventions and discovered that exercise helped improve lean body mass and reduce body fat, which is crucial for long-term health and well-being.

Research from the University of New South Wales revealed that exercise can also boost the immune system in cancer patients. Prostate cancer patients engaging in moderate-intensity aerobic and resistance exercises for three hours a week experienced significant improvements in immune function.

Not only can regular exercise during and after cancer treatment provide a wide range of benefits, such as reducing fatigue, improving cardiovascular fitness, alleviating treatment side effects, enhancing cognitive function, improving body composition, and strengthening the immune system, but it can also help you feel in control of your life. Even on the most challenging days, a few minutes of light exercise can be better than no exercise.

Remember, it's crucial to incorporate exercise into your treatment plan under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. By doing so, you can take an active role in your recovery and improve your overall well-being.

References: 

1. Mustian KM, Alfano CM, Heckler C, et al. Comparison of pharmaceutical, psychological, and exercise treatments for cancer-related fatigue: A meta-analysis. JAMA Oncol. 2017;3(7):961-968. 
2. Uth J, Hornstrup T, Christensen JF, et al. Effects of exercise intervention on depressive symptoms in cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Epidemiol. 2013;5:413-424. 
3. Hayes SC, Steele ML, Spence RR, et al. Exercise following breast cancer: Exploring the role of group cohesion and social support. J Sci Med Sport. 2015;18(5):568-573. 
4. Bluethmann SM, Mariotto AB, Rowland JH. Anticipating the “Silver Tsunami”: Prevalence Trajectories and Comorbidity Burden among Older Cancer Survivors in the United States. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2016;25(7):1029-1036. 
5. Schmitz KH, Courneya KS, Matthews C, et al. American College of Sports Medicine roundtable on exercise guidelines for cancer survivors. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2010;42(7):1409-1426.