Medical expert of the article
New publications
Benefits and harms of sports for cancer
Last reviewed: 03.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
In the process of cancer prevention or treatment, physical activity is an excellent aid, as it can strengthen the immune system by stimulating the synthesis of immune cells. Exercise also stabilizes the patient's weight, which is very important, because it is known that excessive weight increases the likelihood of tumor formation. If cancer develops against the background of obesity, this increases the risk of early metastasis. Therefore, according to doctors, sports and cancer are completely compatible.
Is it possible to play sports if you have cancer?
Exercise is considered a recognized and effective method of rehabilitation during cancer treatment. In addition, many people diagnosed with cancer experience depression, and sports help eliminate it or reduce its symptoms.
Only your doctor can decide whether you can exercise if you have cancer. Exercise should only be done under the supervision of a specialist. You should start training immediately after the disease is diagnosed, especially if you have not previously performed any exercise. To achieve a positive result, you need to correctly combine endurance exercises (for example, exercise bike or walking) and gymnastics (strength exercises, stretching, training to improve coordination).
You should walk more often and not lie in bed for long periods of time, so as not to worsen your exhausted and tired state of health. You can also do moderate housework and exercise on a mini-stepper.
The type of exercise is selected individually, taking into account the type of cancer the patient has.
[ Benefits and harms of physical exercise for cancer
Sports and cancer can be compatible – as various studies demonstrate, there are exercises that can have a positive impact on the patient’s health and help in the process of cancer treatment.
Thanks to sports activities after cancer diagnosis, the life expectancy of patients increases, and the risk of possible relapse, on the contrary, decreases. This is especially useful for patients who suffer from colon, ovarian, breast and prostate cancer.
It is not recommended to do intense or overly heavy physical exercise - it will do more harm than good if you have cancer.
If you are undergoing chemotherapy, you should not exercise on the day of the procedure or for 6 hours after its completion. Physical exercise should be limited if any painful sensations occur. In general, exercise should be dosed, while consulting with a qualified specialist.