The consensus seems to be that the more you can keep your body moving, the better it will be for many (though not necessarily all) of your symptoms, your overall strength and stamina, and your state of mind.
Exercise may help to fight infection (primarily by increasing oxygen in the blood), reduce pain (by releasing opiate-like endorphins), strengthen joints, relieve constipation or nausea, encourage sleep, relieve stress and expose you to fresh air and sunlight.
Some people with advanced cancer will struggle to exercise, while others may overdo it. The type and amount of exercise you can manage depends on your cancer, treatment, symptoms and other factors which your doctor or relevant health professionals will need to take into account.
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Life, Hope & Reality was developed and written by Afaf Girgis, Claire Johnson, and Sylvie Lambert with funding from the NHMRC and Cancer Council NSW.
Last updated 30 August 2015