Effective Exercises to Reduce the Risk of Cancer Metastasis
- Julian Simpson
- Aug 4
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Exercise therapy, a non-invasive and non-pharmacological intervention, has demonstrated significant benefits in managing chronic diseases like cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and osteoporosis . In oncology, emerging evidence suggests that physical activity may influence tumour biology and reduce metastasis risk by enhancing immune function, modulating hormone levels, and suppressing inflammatory pathways
What exercises are best for different cancers?
Treadmill- Breast Cancer- Exercise enhances immune function and reduces lung metastasis
Aerobic and Resistance Training- Prostate Cancer-
Aerobic (Walking) - Colorectal Cancer- Exercise improves inflammatory and metabolic profiles in patients
Aerobic activity, including walking, running, swimming, and cycling, improves cardiovascular function and promotes immunity. Aerobic exercise diminishes fatigue and enhances sleep quality in breast cancer patients
Resistance training enhances muscle mass and mitigates treatment-induced muscular atrophy in cancer patients
HIIT may impede tumour proliferation by modulating metabolic pathways. Flexibility activities, like yoga and tai chi, enhance joint mobility and alleviate discomfort
Functional training enhances swallowing capabilities and overall quality of life in individuals with head and neck cancer
Summary
Type of exercise | Characteristic | Cancer type and stage |
Aerobic exercise | Enhances cardiorespiratory fitness, boosts immunity and reduces inflammation levels | Breast cancer, Stage I-II |
Resistance training | Increase muscle strength and endurance, improve muscle mass | Head and neck cancer, Stage I-IV |
HIIT | Regulates metabolic pathways and inhibits tumour growth | Lung cancer, Stage I-II |
Flexibility Exercise | Improves joint mobility, reduces pain, and reduces anxiety and depression | Breast cancer, Postoperative |
balance training | Prevents falls, especially for elderly patients | Colorectal cancer, Stage III-IV |
Core Strength Training | Focus on the muscles of the abdomen, and reduce lower back pain | Breast Cancer, Stage I-II |
functional training | Improve self-care skills by imitating daily life actions | Geriatric oncology, Entire stage |
Aquatic exercise | Utilises the buoyancy of water to reduce stress on joints, suitable for patients with joint problems or obesity | Colon cancer, Stage III |
Exercise intervention strategies for different metastatic sites
Metastatic sites | Common symptoms | Type of exercise | Relevant research |
Bone metastasis | Fragile bones, susceptible to fractures and complications | Low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, gentle stretching); moderate strength training under professional supervision | Moderate strength training strengthens muscles, reduces bone load, relieves pain and improves stability |
Lung metastasis | Difficulty breathing, fatigue | Appropriate aerobic exercise (jogging, cycling, swimming) | Regular low-intensity aerobic exercise improves lung function, reduces dyspnea and improves quality of life |
Liver metastasis | Low exercise tolerance and fatigue | Low intensity, short duration exercise (yoga, Tai Chi) | Light stretching relieves liver area discomfort and promotes overall health |
Brain metastasis | Cognitive decline, balance disorders | Balance training (standing balance exercises, gait training); light aerobic exercise (stationary bike riding) | Exercise therapy combined with cognitive training slows cognitive deterioration, increases independence in life |
Lymphatic node metastasis | lymphoedema | Moderate resistance exercises, stretching exercises | Resistance exercise reduces risk of lymphedema and improves upper extremity mobility |
Skin metastasis | Fragile and vulnerable skin | Low-intensity exercise such as Tai Chi and gentle yoga; avoid friction or strenuous stretches | Promotes blood circulation and strengthens immunity without causing excessive skin irritation |
Gastrointestinal metastasis | Indigestion, loss of energy | Low to moderate intensity cardio, light resistance training | Moderate aerobic exercise helps improve digestive function and reduce abdominal discomfort |
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Chen X, Zhang J, Gao F, Liu N, Du H, Li J, Li Z, Chen R. Exercise therapy: an effective approach to mitigate the risk of cancer metastasis. World J Surg Oncol. 2025 May 16;23(1):192. doi: 10.1186/s12957-025-03846-7. PMID: 40380237; PMCID: PMC12082867.
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