How to Overcome Barriers to Exercise as a Cancer Patient - Andrea Leonard, MS, CES, CPT
Jun 04, 2025Exercise isn’t just safe for people with cancer—it’s therapeutic. But despite its proven benefits, most patients face emotional, physical, logistical, or psychological obstacles that stop them from moving. The good news? These barriers can be addressed with the right tools, support, and mindset.
This guide explores the most common exercise challenges faced by cancer patients—and provides evidence-informed strategies to overcome them at every stage of the cancer journey.
Top Barriers to Exercise for Cancer Patients (and What to Do About Them)
1. “I’m too tired to exercise.”
Barrier: Cancer-related fatigue
Solution:
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It may feel counterintuitive, but gentle physical activity reduces fatigue over time.
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Start with 5–10 minutes of marching in a chair, walking, gentle stretching, or restorative yoga. Build gradually.
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Break up movement throughout the day rather than aiming for long sessions.
Evidence: A meta-analysis published in JCO (Mustian et al., 2017) showed exercise outperformed medications in reducing cancer-related fatigue.
2. “I’m afraid I’ll get hurt or worsen my condition.”
Barrier: Fear of injury or overexertion
Solution:
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Work with an oncology-trained exercise specialist (like a CETI OncoVie™ Cancer Exercise Specialist).
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Get a baseline assessment from a physical therapist or a CETI OncoVie™ Cancer Exercise Specialist, and customized program based on your treatment, side effects, co-morbidities, future risk factors, and physical status.
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Use modified or chair-based exercises, and avoid high-risk movements during treatment or recovery phases.
- If you are immunocomprised:
- wear a mask if you are going to a gym
- exercise in the privacy of your home or outdoors
- avoid public swimming pools, jacuzzis, saunas, and water fountains
3. “No one told me I should exercise.”
Barrier: Lack of education and referrals from medical teams
Solution:
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Ask your doctor for an exercise prescription or referral to a physical therapist or a CETI OncoVie™ Cancer Exercise Specialist.
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Organizations like the American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute recommend exercise for nearly all cancer types and stages.
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Print guidelines or bring research to appointments to start the conversation.
📖 Reference: ACS Guidelines for Survivors (Rock et al., 2022) recommend aerobic and strength training unless contraindicated.
4. “I don’t have access to a gym or trainer.”
Barrier: Cost, location, or mobility limits
Solution:
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Use home-based or virtual programs designed for cancer survivors.
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Many hospitals, YMCAs, and nonprofits offer free or low-cost classes, such as LIVESTRONG at the YMCA or Moving Through Cancer.
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Explore Medicare or private insurance coverage for cancer rehabilitation services.
5. “I’m not motivated or feel depressed.”
Barrier: Emotional or mental health challenges
Solution:
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Connect with a counselor or support group specializing in oncology.
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Pair movement with joy—try music, nature walks, or dancing.
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Keep a journal to track energy, sleep, and mood before and after movement.
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Set function-based goals (e.g., carrying groceries, climbing stairs, returning to work).
- Imagine your "best" life. Let your future goals inspire you to become the best version of yourself.
- Join an exercise class for cancer patients/survivors for the comradery and added motivation.
6. “I don’t have time to work out.”
Barrier: Busy schedule or lack of routine
Solution:
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Incorporate micro-movement sessions: 5 minutes of stretching, 10 minutes of walking, light housework.
- Stretch while taking a shower or at your desk.
- Do simple exercises while cooking or in between cleaning and household chores.
- Perform isometric exercises throughout the day.
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Treat exercise like medicine—schedule it like appointments.
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Choose activities that fit your lifestyle and energy level (what do you love doing and how can you incorporate movement).
7. “I’m older or have other health issues.”
Barrier: Comorbidities, fear of limitations
Solution:
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Exercise can help manage or even reverse issues like arthritis, neuropathy, and cardiovascular disease as well as prevent future cancers and cancer comorbidities like diabetes, osteoporosis, heart and lung damage, and lymphedema.
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Tailored programs with gentle strength, balance, and flexibility work are safe and effective even for frail or elderly patients.
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A functional fitness assessment from a CETI OncoVie™ Cancer Exercise Specialist is essential to help set realistic and safe goals.
Key Takeaways
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You don’t need to be an athlete to benefit from movement.
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Help is available—ask your provider, seek a CETI OncoVie™ Cancer Exercise Specialist, and find programs that work for you.
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Most importantly: Start small. Stay consistent. Celebrate progress.
📘 Resources for Getting Started
- CETI OncoVie Cancer Exercise Specialists
- American Cancer Society: Physical Activity for Cancer Survivors
References
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Exercise Reduces Cancer Recurrence and Mortality
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A landmark international randomized controlled trial involving 889 colon cancer patients demonstrated that a structured, three-year exercise program led to a 28% reduction in cancer recurrence and a 37% reduction in mortality over eight years. apnews.com
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Exercise Alleviates Cancer-Related Fatigue
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A meta-analysis published in JAMA Oncology found that exercise interventions significantly reduced cancer-related fatigue compared to pharmaceutical and psychological treatments, highlighting exercise as a superior intervention. jamanetwork.com
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Physical Activity Improves Mental Health and Quality of Life
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The American Cancer Society's 2022 guidelines emphasize that physical activity after a cancer diagnosis can improve survival rates for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer survivors. Additionally, exercise can alleviate anxiety, depression, fatigue, and improve overall quality of life.
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Pre-Diagnosis Physical Activity Lowers Mortality Risk
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A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that regular physical activity prior to a cancer diagnosis is associated with a lower risk of disease progression and mortality.
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Disparities in Physical Activity Access
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The "Active Living After Cancer" program demonstrated that community-based interventions can significantly increase physical activity levels among medically underserved and minority cancer survivors, with participants
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Start your journey to becoming an OncoVie™ Cancer Exercise Specialist with our world-leading courses in oncology exercise.
