Physical activity is any type of movement that uses your muscles, including things like walking, housework or gardening. Exercise is any kind of physical activity that is planned and done regularly to improve fitness.
Exercise can be split into three categories:
- aerobic - to improve heart and lung health and general fitness
- strengthening - to build muscle and strengthen joints and bones
- balance and flexibility - to maintain stability and range of motion
Any type of physical activity will help maintain or improve your fitness, health and wellbeing.
It is common for people to lose strength and muscle mass while unwell with cancer and/or going through cancer treatments. Exercise before, during, or after treatment helps to make your body stronger and to protect against or recover from muscle loss or reduced fitness.
Being active before, during and after cancer treatment is generally safe. But before starting any physical activity plan, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional first.
How to get started
If you are new to exercise, start off by doing a small amount regularly and increase the amount you do gradually, giving yourself time to rest between sessions.
Once you have started, you will probably find that being active becomes an enjoyable part of your life. You may notice the benefits quite quickly, such as feeling less tired and stressed, and an increase in your confidence and mood. Noticing these changes and knowing the benefits to your health can keep you motivated, even on difficult days.
Health benefits of regular exercise
Regular exercise can also help to reduce the risk of:
- treatment side effects or becoming weaker while going through treatment
- developing a new cancer
- certain cancers returning
- long-term effects of treatment (months/years after), including risk of heart problems, bone thinning, weight gain
- other health problems, including high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, depression & anxiety
Last reviewed: 29 September 2025