Exercise might not be the first thing you think about after a cancer diagnosis but staying active can bring real, meaningful benefits, physically and emotionally. Exercise for those with cancer involve a lovely walk, gentle yoga or moving to your favourite tunes, movement can support you through every stage of treatment and recovery.
Exercise during and after cancer treatment
Physically, regular activity helps to combat fatigue, improve circulation and maintain strength and flexibility, which are often affected by treatments like chemotherapy or hormone therapy. Even light exercise can boost energy levels and support your immune system, helping your body cope better with treatment and recover more smoothly.
Just as importantly, exercise has powerful emotional benefits. Moving your body releases endorphins, those natural “feel-good” hormones that help lift mood, reduce anxiety and improve overall wellbeing. It can also give you a sense of control and routine at a time when life feels uncertain.
Longer term, keeping active supports your heart health, weight management and may even reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in some cases. Every person is different, so it’s important to get advice from your healthcare team and choose activities that suit your energy levels and condition.
Exercise is a gentle, empowering way to rebuild strength, confidence and hope on your cancer journey. You can read more about the benefits of exercise on the NHS website.
Explore the online and in person options we offer by clicking the links below.
Wellbeing and exercise at Wessex Cancer Support
We offer a range of wellbeing and exercise support sessions at our cancer support centres in Bournemouth, Chandler’s Ford, Waterside (Hythe) and the Isle of Wight (Newport). Learn more about our services below.
Please note that not every type of activity is offered in all our cancer support centres, and some are available online, so please visit our Centre-specific pages if you’d just like to explore what’s on near you.
Help us to support our community
Thanks to people like you, we can provide care for those affected by cancer in our community. Your support means our Cancer Support Centres are there to help our clients, providing free, personalised wellbeing support to them and their families. Our running costs for our Cancer Support Centres are generously funded by people who donate, fundraise, and shop with us. Without your support, people in your community wouldn’t be able to receive the personalised care they deserve.
Every penny you donate makes a huge difference.
From everyone at Wessex Cancer Support, thank you.
