New exercise program helps people stay strong through cancer

When you’re going through cancer treatment or recovering afterwards, rest might seem like the best medicine. But research shows that exercise can also play an important role in managing cancer recovery.

A new Adelaide University program – My Cancer Exercise Program (My CEP) – is making tailored exercise more affordable and accessible for people with cancer.

Led by final-year Clinical Exercise Physiology students under the supervision of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, participants receive individually tailored exercise sessions through small group classes (up to five people) at Adelaide University’s City East Exercise Physiology Clinic. And as the classes can cost only $5, My CEP is proving popular for people living with cancer.

Program lead, Adelaide University lecturer Rebecca Dostan, said the new program is helping participants better manage their physical and mental wellbeing.

“Cancer and its treatment can take an enormous toll on the body, and when you’re feeling tired, weak or unwell, exercise can understandably be the last thing on your mind,” Dostan said.

“But prescribed exercise can actually be an important part of cancer care, helping manage some of the side effects of treatment, maintain strength and function, and improve quality of life.

“Tailoring programs for each person is key, because what is safe and achievable for one, will look very different for another depending on their cancer, treatment, symptoms and overall health.

“That’s where My CEP can make a real difference. By providing a safe, supervised environment where participants can exercise at a level that is right for them.”

Clinical research shows that exercise is an effective adjunct therapy for managing cancer, with studies showing it can reduce the relative risk of cancer recurrence by 21-35%, and cancer mortality by 28-44%.

Exercise has also been shown to reduce and improve treatment related side effects including chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, bone health, sleep quality, cardiotoxicity as well as skeletal and muscle wasting syndromes.

My CEP also provides invaluable learning experiences for Adelaide University’s 4th year Clinical Exercise Physiology students.

Because My CEP is delivered by students, they get the opportunity to put their skills into practice while working with people with complex and changing health needs,” Dostan said. “Importantly, students are supervised, so participants receive individualized support, while students gain meaningful experience that will help prepare them for their future careers.”

Rebecca Dostan, Program Lead and Lecturer, Adelaide University 

For mum Jessie Marshall, who was diagnosed with hormone-positive metastatic breast cancer in March this year, the exercise program is helping her build strength and confidence while managing the challenges of living with cancer.

With cancer having spread from her breast to her bones, Jessie is undergoing ongoing treatment to keep the disease under control, while managing side effects including fatigue, nausea and medically induced menopause.

Referred to My CEP by her McGrath Foundation Breast Cancer Nurse, Jessie said the program has made a significant difference to her physical and mental wellbeing.

“When I was diagnosed with incurable cancer, the last thing I imagined was that I’d be doing more exercise than I’ve ever done in my life,” Jessie said.

“But physically and mentally, it’s helped me so much. I look forward to my sessions each week, and I love seeing how much stronger I’m becoming.

“With cancer in my bones, building strength is really important for my overall health. I want to keep my body as strong as possible while I fight this disease, and I’m well on my way to being the strongest I’ve ever been.

“I also love working with the students. Every one of them has taught me something different, and it’s wonderful to see their enthusiasm and learn from them along the way.”

My CEP includes an initial consultation, 10 group classes and an individual discharge plan. The 45-minute group classes run twice per week: Mondays at 9:15am and Fridays at 12:30pm. Participants will need a written clearance for participation in My CEP from their Medical Oncologist or GP.