Exercise & Breast Cancer: What the Research Is Now Telling Us

At CanConquer, we often hear the question: “Is exercise still safe for me if I have metastatic breast cancer?” Thanks to new, high-quality research, we can confidently say: yes, and not only is it safe, it’s incredibly beneficial when done right.

Living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is a daily challenge—physically, emotionally, and mentally. While treatments continue to evolve, many people are left managing fatigue, pain, insomnia, and disruptions to their everyday life. But here’s some encouraging news: exercise isn’t just safe for many people with MBC, it might actually be one of the most powerful tools we have to improve quality of life.

For many years, exercise was considered too risky or simply not a priority in advanced cancer care. But that narrative is shifting, fast, and CanConquer is proud to be part of this movement in the Illawarra and beyond.

Exercise: Not Just for the Healthy

It’s well established that exercise during early-stage cancer treatment can boost strength, reduce fatigue, and support mental health. But for a long time, those with advanced or metastatic cancer were left out of the picture. That’s changing, thanks to robust research and new guidelines. One of the largest and most important studies to date,the EFFECT trial, is helping shine a light on what’s possible.  

At CanConquer, we’re committed to changing the narrative around cancer care. Exercise is medicine, and for those living with advanced cancer, it can make a real difference.

What the Research Says

A groundbreaking international study, The EFFECT Trial (Project on Exercise for Fatigue Eradication in Advanced Breast Cancer to Improve Quality of Life), published recently in 2024, is changing the landscape. (https://www.h2020preferable.eu/)

Here’s what you need to know:

• The study followed 357 women with stage 4 breast cancer across eight clinical centres in Europe and Australia.
  
• One group completed a 9-month structured and supervised exercise program; the other received general physical activity advice only.
  
• Researchers measured outcomes at 3, 6, and 9 months.
  
• Tailored & Supervised: Why It Matters

Not all exercise is suitable for someone going through metastatic cancer, especially if they have bone, brain, or lung involvement. The key is individualisation, and that’s what we specialise in at CanConquer.

Our programs are:

• Supervised by university-trained Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists with expertise in cancer care
  
• Adapted for energy levels, symptoms, and medical history
  
• Designed to work alongside active treatment—not against it
• Safety is paramount. There are some signs that you may need to pause or  specifically modify exercise.  This is where professional guidance becomes essential. We work closely with your medical team to ensure your program is safe and effective.

Some days, a gentle walk may be all you can manage. Other days might involve light resistance training or mobility work. There’s no “right” way, only your way, supported by our team.

Key Findings

👉 Fatigue significantly improved in the supervised exercise group.
👉 Quality of life scores rose – particularly in physical, emotional and social functioning.
👉 No increased risk of serious side effects was observed.
👉 Pain, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and physical fitness all showed meaningful improvement.

In simple terms: structured exercise works. And, it’s safe.

What Kind of Exercise Are We Talking About?

The program was highly individualised, including:

• Supervised aerobic and resistance sessions twice per week (initially) with specific protocols in each exercise to elicit a physiological response.
  
• Encouragement for daily physical activity, supported by trackers and an exercise app
  
• Tailoring around symptoms, side effects, and individual capability
  

At CanConquer, we use similar principles to guide our programs. Whether someone is newly diagnosed or several years into their journey, we prioritise evidence based strategies, individual needs, safety, and support.

But Isn’t Exercise Risky with Bone Metastases?

Great question, and yes, caution is required.

Bone metastases are common in Metastatic Breast cancer (MBC), especially in the spine, pelvis, ribs, and femur. Certain movements (e.g. twisting, heavy loading, deep bending) can potentially increase fracture risk.

That’s why at CanConquer:

• We assess fracture risk using tools like the Mirels score and imaging reports.
  
• We use safe movement guidelines, such as avoiding torsional loads and preferring supported, low-impact training.
  
• We coordinate with your medical team to ensure you’re cleared to move safely.
  

The EFFECT trial proved that, when these precautions are taken, exercise is not only safe, it’s powerful.

The CanConquer Approach

We believe in:

• Exercise as medicine — delivered by qualified professionals with experience in oncology
  
• Customised care that respects where you’re at,  physically, emotionally and where you are on your treatment regime and the type of protocol..
  
• A supportive environment that helps you reconnect with movement, even on your hardest days, to improve your energy levels and quality of life.
  
• With advances in treatment, many people with MBC are living longer. The focus now is on living well. Targeted science based exercise prescription plays a central role in that mission.

Key Takeaways

• Supervised, individualised exercise should be part of standard care for people with all cancers, and metastatic breast cancer.
  
• It can help manage fatigue, improve quality of life, reduce pain, and enhance physical function.
  
• Safety matters, especially with bone involvement. An educated and experienced team (like ours at CanConquer) knows how to guide you safely and get you the changes you need.

 What This Means for You (or a Loved One)

If you’re living with metastatic breast cancer:

• You don’t have to face it alone.
  
• Talk to your oncologist or GP about including a cancer-specific exercise physiologist in your care team.
  
• Seek out programs like those offered by CanConquer that are evidence-based, supportive, and personalised.
  

Our goal is to help you regain control, restore strength, and improve quality of life—no matter where you are on your cancer journey.

Final Word

Metastatic breast cancer doesn’t mean giving up on movement. In fact, movement, when done safely,can help you feel better, function better, and live better.

The EFFECT study has shown us what’s possible. Now it’s time to make it happen in practice. At CanConquer, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Exercise is no longer optional in cancer care. It’s essential. Let’s make it standard.

For more information about CanConquer visit https://www.canconquer.com.au/