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Staying active

Physical activity, Being active, Exercise

When you are living with or after cancer treatment, becoming more active can be a positive change in your life. Regular exercise can combat the side effects of treatment and research suggests that physically fit people with cancer can fight the disease better, possibly living longer and healthier.

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Exercise can help to promote better sleep, improve mood, improve cardiovascular fitness, improve flexibility, muscle and bone strength, improve energy and reduce fatigue, reduce risk of falls (with improved balance and strength), improved weight management and overall wellbeing, maintain your everyday lifestyle.

We've collected our favourite resources for you to read, watch, listen to, download and share to better understand and manage this concern, as well as clinical services if you would prefer to speak to someone about the emotional challenges of cancer treatment. 
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Exercise for people living with cancer

CANCER COUNCIL

We recommend this resource because...

Good information on ways to prepare for exercise and some exercises you can do at home.

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Exercise and Breast Cancer

BREAST CANCER NETWORK AUSTRALIA

We recommend this resource because...

Comprehensive booklet that answers common questions about when to start exercising, how much exercise, how to stay motivated and lymphoedema and exercise.

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Exercise and blood cancer

LEUKAEMIA FOUNDATION

We recommend this resource because...

Exercise advice and resources specifically for people with blood cancers.

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Physiotherapy and exercise rehabilitation in cancer care

AUSTRALIAN PHYSIOTHERAPY ASSOCIATION

We recommend this resource because...

Five discussion points on the role physiotherapists have with exercise prescription and rehabilitation in cancer care

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Exercise After a Cancer Diagnosis

CANCER COUNCIL NSW

We recommend this resource because...

Short videos demonstrating the exercises in the Cancer Council: Exercise for people living with cancer booklet.

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Position Statement Exercise in Cancer Care

CLINICAL ONCOLOGY SOCIETY OF AUSTRALIA

We recommend this resource because...

Provides guidance for all health professionals involved in the care of people with cancer about integrating exercise into routine cancer.

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Effects of Exercise on Health-Related Outcomes in Those with Cancer

AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SPORTS MEDICINE

We recommend this resource because...

Descriptions of specific dosages of exercises to manage specific cancer related symptoms.

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Physical Activity for people with metastatic bone disease guide for health

MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT (UK)

We recommend this resource because...

Considerations for prescription of activity for those with metastatic bone disease.

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Exercise medicine in cancer care - RACGP

THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF GENERAL PRACTITIONERS

We recommend this resource because...

A publication summarising the evidence in the role exercise has in cancer care.

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Exercise medicine in cancer management

EXERCISE AND SPORTS SCIENCE AUSTRALIA

We recommend this resource because...

These position statements detail exercise recommendations for people with cancer.

YMCA Cancer Survivor Program

The program is a free 12-week physical activity and support program for anyone living with, through and beyond cancer. We provide a safe exercise environment for cancer survivors to gain and reclaim their health and well-being, as well as make strong friendships with others going through the same experience.

Oncology Physiotherapists

Physiotherapists can offer advice on how to start exercising or increasing physical activity. They can complete an assessment to tailor a home exercise program or one on one or group exercise sessions to meet your goals. If you would like to link with one of our physiotherapists or the exercise group, please ask your treating health professional to send a referral.

The Wesley Hospital Choices Cancer Support Centre

At The Wesley Hospital Choices Cancer Support Centre, our unique and free programs aim to improve your quality of life and help you navigate the sometimes very daunting cancer experience.

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Bone health
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Emotional impacts and changes
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Shortness of breath (Dyspnoea)
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Changes to your body and appearance
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Fatigue
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Weight changes
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Eating well
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Relaxation and breathing
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