Can I exercise during cancer treatment?

For many people, yes. The National Cancer Institute notes that physical activity — such as swimming, walking, yoga, and biking — gives many people more energy, keeps muscles toned, decreases fatigue, and helps control stress during cancer treatment.

Whether exercise is right for you, and what kind, depends on your specific treatment, your overall health, and how you're feeling. NCI is clear that getting your doctor's okay first is an important step before starting or continuing physical activity, since what's safe can vary a lot from person to person and treatment to treatment.

If you get the green light, starting gently and paying attention to how your body responds is a reasonable approach. Some people find that light activity, like a short walk, helps them feel better on treatment days; others need more rest, especially right after a session. Both responses are normal, and what works can change as your treatment continues.

Ask your care team what type and amount of activity makes sense for you right now, and whether that might change at different points in your treatment.