Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Exercise Classes and Consults

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    Benefits of Exercise for Cancer Patients and Survivors

    Exercise holds benefits for everyone, and a growing number of studies show that cancer patients in particular can gain valuable benefits from regular exercise. Research shows that regular exercise interspersed with periods of rest can help:

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    • strengthen muscles and bones
    • reduce the risk of cancer recurrence
    • improve sleep patterns
    • help maintain a healthy weight
    • reduce fatigue and raise energy levels
    • improve mood and reduce anxiety

    Studies also suggest that cancer survivors who exercise regularly may feel better, have less fatigue, and experience fewer symptoms after treatment compared to those who do not get regular exercise.

    Zakim’s classes are designed specifically for cancer patients and survivors and are offered in-person, online, and on demand. Classes include strength training, low-impact aerobic exercise, yoga, yogalates, Tai Chi, Qigong, core strengthening, and stretching/mobility with various options based on experience level.

    Read our Insight blog for information and inspiration about the benefits of exercise classes at Dana-Farber.

    Exercise for Cancer Survivors

    In this video, Jennifer Ligibel, MD, describes the benefits of exercise for survivors and explains some issues to be aware of before starting an exercise program.

    Health Coaching - Coming soon!

    Some Dana-Farber patients may be eligible to receive personalized 1:1 support through a 12-week-long Health Coaching Program being offered in fall 2026. This program aims to help patients build safe, sustainable exercise and wellness habits during and after cancer treatment.

    Get more information on Zakim's future Health Coaching program and see if you're eligible to participate by calling 617-632-3322.

    Questions About Exercise During and After Cancer Treatment

    Dana-Farber exercise physiologist Nancy Campbell, MS, answers questions about staying active during and after cancer treatment.

      What are the benefits of exercise for cancer patients and survivors?

      Studies have shown that exercise may help reduce the risk of recurrence in cancer patients. It has also been shown to help elevate mood, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, boost energy, and help reduce symptoms of treatment-related side effects, such as neuropathy.

      Should cancer patients wait until they are done with treatment before starting an exercise routine?

      If you feel well enough to start exercising, and if your oncologist and care team have approved of a fitness routine, then patients can certainly work out during treatment. It's important to start slow; try walking, yoga, or stretching before working your way up to a more active routine.

      How do you recommend patients get started with fitness routines?

      Patients should start slow and work their way up to more rigorous exercise. I recommend starting with a regular walking routine or some yoga and stretching. Flexibility exercises, like yoga, can help you maintain mobility and get you ready for more vigorous exercises.

      Once you feel comfortable, you can work your way up to aerobic exercises, like jogging, cycling (stationary bikes are fine), swimming, or brisk walks. These can help you burn calories, lose weight, and build cardiovascular fitness.

      Resistance training can also help maintain muscle and bone mass, which may be important during and after treatment.

      What resistance training exercises do you recommend?

      It's hard to answer this question without knowing specifics about your cancer treatment or other medical history. But in general, focus on the major muscle groups such as quads, hamstring, core, and upper back. It is always best to seek professional help from a physical therapist or certified personal trainer if you have any injuries or limitations.

      How often do you recommend cancer patients and survivors should try to exercise?

      The standard American College of Sports Medicine and American Cancer Society recommends 150 minutes per week of cardiovascular exercise and 2-3 days of strength training per week. However, it's important to listen to your body and increase your exercise slowly, especially if you are still in treatment.

      Are there ways I can stay fit without having to leave the house?

      On-demand exercise videos are a great way to get started without leaving the house. The Zakim Center has hundreds of free exercise videos available on MyZakim and you can also find them for free on YouTube. For anyone who is just starting a fitness routine, especially cancer patients, try "walking workout" videos that involve marching in place for varying distances or amounts of time.

      You can also incorporate household items into your workouts. Try walking up and down stairs — or up and down just two stairs at a time. Push-ups are also an easy way to build strength and can be done on the knees or off a wall or coffee table. For more strength training, try using soup cans in place of dumbbells.

      Does my fitness routine have to include something cardio-focused, like running or cycling? Is it OK if I stick to yoga and stretching?

      It is important for your fitness routine to be well rounded. Many people find walking to be an easy and efficient way to get cardiovascular exercise. Ultimately, it needs to be an activity that you enjoy and is convenient for it to be successful. We also recommend adding some strength training into your routine.

      The Livestrong program at the YMCA might be a good fit, or you could look into exercise programs at your local hospital or wellness center.

      What are your tips for staying motivated and keeping on track with an exercise routine?

      Many people – not just cancer patients – find it hard to stay motivated when it comes to exercise. Try finding an exercise buddy who can accompany you on workouts or walks. Your buddy can also be someone who checks in with you to make sure you're sticking to a fitness routine.

      Another way to stay motivated is to set goals and work slowly towards them. This could be a simple commitment to exercise three days a week, or a larger goal like a charity walk or 5K. The Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund Walk is a great goal to work up to. The Ulman Cancer Fund for young adults has a great Cancer to 5K program.

      To keep track of progress, try using a pedometer or fitness-tracking smartphone apps. Friends can also compare numbers in a friendly competition, which can help keep up motivation.

      Can exercise help with neuropathy? What exercises do you recommend?

      Exercise is a great way to help deal with side effects of neuropathy. If you have neuropathy in your hands or fingers, try exercises like:

      • Finger rolls – Extend your arms in front of you at shoulder height with palms facing away from you. Then, starting with your little finger, curl your hand into a fist one finger at a time. After that, rotate the fist to face you and open up your hand, one finger at a time, and rotate the palm back out to the front.
      • Finger taps – Extend your arms in front of you at shoulder height. Touch your little finger to your thumb and repeat with other fingers, then repeat the motion in reverse order (starting with index finger). You can also do finger taps sitting down; place your palms on your lap and lift each finger to tap twice on your lap.

      If you have neuropathy in your feet, you can try:

      • Ankle circles
      • Calf raises/stretches
      • Standing heel to toe – Place right foot directly in front of left foot, eyes open, arms at side or across chest. Look straight ahead at a stationary object and hold for up to 30 seconds before repeating with left foot in front of right foot. If you need to, hold on to a chair for support.
      • Standing side leg – Stand next to a chair in an upright position with feet together. Then, raise your leg in an outward motion, as far as possible, making sure the foot is pointing forward. Hold this for two seconds before returning to the starting position. Keep your back straight and your abdominal muscles engaged. Then, repeat with the other leg.

      Dana-Farber's Zakim Center also offers great classes that can help with neuropathy symptoms.

      How do I find instructors who take my medical issues into account?

      Several organizations like the Cancer Exercise Training Institute, Yoga4cancer, and Pink Ribbon Pilates that offer special certifications for instructors working with cancer survivors. It is important that you ask about an instructor’s experience working with oncology patients, share your prior surgeries and medical history with them, and speak up if certain movements cause pain. We also recommend the book "Pilates for Breast Cancer Survivors" by Naomi Aaronson and Ann Marie Turo.

      Can you recommend any mobile apps to help me stay on track with a fitness routine?

      My Fitness Pal and Map My Fitness are popular options for tracking both diet and exercise, and both are free. Keep in mind that some apps do require payment for advanced features. If you own a Fitbit, try using the mobile app that goes along with the device.

      There are also many Couch to 5K apps available that can help you stay on track and build up endurance. Search the web for suggestions.

      Before starting any fitness routine, it's important to talk with your oncologist and care team.

      More Resources

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      For Cancer Survivors

      Explore survivorship care and supportive resources to help you stay healthy and live well after cancer.