Being physically active during treatment

Being physically active during cancer treatment is generally safe. But there may be activities you need to avoid or be careful with. We have more information about exercising safely when you have cancer. There may be some weeks when you are advised to do less, such as immediately after chemotherapy. It is important not to suddenly start intense exercise that you are not used to.

Regular physical activity will reduce the risk of blood clots (thrombosis). These are more common after cancer, especially if you:

• have recently had surgery, chemotherapy or a hormonal therapy
• spend a lot of time not moving.

Some physical activity during treatment will help you maintain your fitness, strength and bone health, and reduces the risk of developing other health problems. It is best to try to increase the amount of activity you do in the long term. Try not to worry about any short-term setbacks.

If you are not sure about being active during treatment, talk to your specialist nurse, physiotherapist or GP. Some hospitals and community services have cancer exercise specialists or classes that you can be referred to.

There are lots of ways you can become more active. It is important to do something you enjoy that also fits in with your life.

Everyone’s experience of cancer is different, both during and after treatment. Listen to your body to see which activities feel right for you.

There are lots of ways you can become more active, including:

• doing more around the home, such as housework or gardening
• walking or cycling to work, to the shops, to see friends, or on the school run
• playing with your children or grandchildren in the park
• joining a walking group, or using a pedometer or fitness tracker to record your steps each day
• stretching exercises like yoga, tai chi, qi gong or Pilates
• joining a running club like 5K Your Way or parkrun
• activities that can be done with friends and family, such as swimming or dancing
• joining a class at your local leisure centre
• taking up a sport like badminton, bowls or golf.

You could also ask your GP if they can refer you to a structured exercise programme for people with cancer or long-term conditions. These are usually based at a leisure centre with a gym or dance classroom.

In some areas, Macmillan has developed physical activity support services to help you become more active. These are sometimes called Move More programmes.

These programmes give you the opportunity to discuss your needs with a cancer and physical activity specialist. The specialist will help you set goals that you can achieve and offer ongoing support. They will help you find activities that are right for you.

To find out if you have a specialist in your area or if there are any exercise programmes nearby, search for Move More or physical activity in your local area.

We have more information on exercise guidelines.

If you have advanced cancer

If you have advanced cancer, most types of light physical activity are safe, such as going for a short walk. This can help reduce symptoms such as tiredness and poor appetite. You might also want to speak to your doctor.

We have more information about exercising safely when you have advanced cancer.