Services
With close supervision from clinicians who understand the complexities of cancer treatment and recovery, participants can engage in exercise with confidence
The Cancer Care Rehabilitation Foundation aims to fund targeted exercise programs specifically designed to support people affected by cancer. These programs are evidenced based and delivered by Accredited Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists with specialist training in oncology rehabilitation, ensuring participants receive expert guidance in a supportive and understanding environment.
Tailored Programs
The programs aim to maintain small class sizes to ensure every participant receives the individual attention, support and supervision they deserve. With groups typically limited to 4–6 participants, clinicians are able to closely monitor each person and tailor exercises to suit their treatment stage, energy levels and physical limitations, creating a safe, personalised and supportive environment for recovery.
The exercise groups are designed to support people at every stage of the cancer journey, including those preparing for surgery through targeted prehabilitation, individuals currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, survivors rebuilding strength, mobility and confidence after treatment, and those living with long-term or ongoing side effects. Each participant is supported with care that reflects their current health needs and personal recovery goals.
Programs may be regularly adapt based on cancer-specific needs, including;
Breast Cancer
Participants affected by breast cancer receive targeted rehabilitation that focuses on restoring upper-limb mobility, rebuilding strength after surgery and reducing the risk of lymphoedema. Programs carefully balance progressive loading with protective strategies, helping improve shoulder range of motion, posture and functional movement while supporting safe circulation and long-term recovery.
Prostate Cancer
Rehabilitation for individuals with prostate cancer emphasises resistance training to counteract the effects of hormone therapy, including muscle loss and reduced bone density. Structured exercise programs support strength, stability and functional capacity while helping manage fatigue, weight gain and changes in physical performance.
Colorectal Cancer
Exercise programs for people with colorectal cancer focus on rebuilding core strength, improving mobility and supporting daily movement following surgery or treatment. Careful consideration is given to pelvic floor function and abdominal healing to ensure exercises promote recovery without placing undue strain on sensitive areas.
Gynaecological Cancers
Participants affected by gynaecological cancers receive gentle, progressive therapy that prioritises fatigue management, pelvic floor support and gradual strength rebuilding. Programs aim to improve comfort, mobility and confidence while respecting the physical and emotional impacts of treatment.
Haematological Cancers
For individuals with haematological cancers, therapy is delivered with an immune-aware approach that prioritises safety, energy conservation and gradual conditioning. Programs focus on maintaining strength, balance and mobility while reducing the risk of overexertion or infection during vulnerable phases of treatment.
Program Structure
The CCRF will support accredited providers to run 6-12 week programs for people affected by cancer, giving patients the support, knowledge and confidence they need to continue to include exercise as part of their ongoing treatment.
Initial Assessment
Every participant begins with a 1:1 assessment to set goals and determine safe exercise levels. (*this will incur a fee to be advised by provider)
Ongoing Monitoring
Clinicians check in each session for fatigue, treatment side effects, pain, and overall wellbeing.
Progressive Plans
Exercises build gradually over 6–12 weeks to support steady, sustainable improvements.
Physitrack App Access
Participants may receive their personalised home program through our digital platform, if suitable
Types of Exercise Medicine
Exercise oncology programs are carefully personalised to reflect each individual’s diagnosis, treatment stage, physical capacity and personal goals. By tailoring the type, intensity and progression of exercise, every participant receives safe, meaningful support that evolves with their changing needs.
Strength Training
Strength training focuses on rebuilding muscle, preserving bone health and restoring functional movement that may be lost during cancer treatment. Using carefully selected equipment such as dumbbells, resistance bands, reformer Pilates beds and bodyweight exercises, programs are designed to improve physical resilience while remaining safe and appropriate for each participant’s condition.
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Rebuilds and maintains muscle mass weakened by chemotherapy or inactivity
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Supports bone density, especially for those on hormone therapy or steroids
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Improves posture, joint stability and movement control
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Enhances overall strength for daily activities and independence
Cardiovascular Conditioning
Cardiovascular therapy improves heart and lung function while supporting stamina and energy levels that are often reduced during treatment. Using low-impact equipment such as stationary bikes, rowing machines, arm ergometers and reformer beds, participants build endurance safely and gradually.
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Increases cardiovascular fitness and circulation
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Helps manage cancer-related fatigue and low energy levels
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Supports weight management and metabolic health
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Improves overall functional capacity for everyday tasks
Flexibility & Mobility Work
Flexibility and mobility therapy addresses stiffness, restricted movement and discomfort caused by surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Gentle, targeted stretching and guided mobility exercises help restore range of motion and comfort in affected areas.
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Reduces post-surgical tightness and scar restriction
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Alleviates joint stiffness related to chemotherapy or inactivity
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Improves movement in areas affected by radiation therapy
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Supports upper-limb recovery following breast surgery
Balance & Neuromuscular Training
This therapy type focuses on improving coordination, stability and movement control, particularly for individuals experiencing treatment-related neurological changes. Exercises target the connection between the brain and body to reduce fall risk and restore confidence in movement.
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Improves stability for those experiencing neuropathy or dizziness
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Strengthens coordination and body awareness
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Reduces risk of falls and injury
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Builds confidence in walking and functional movemen
Lymphoedema-Aware Programming
For participants at risk or currently managing lymphoedema, this specialised approach prioritises safe loading, swelling management and careful monitoring. Programs are developed in collaboration with trained clinicians to protect affected areas while maintaining strength and mobility.
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Incorporates progressive, controlled strengthening methods
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Supports safe use of compression garments during exercise
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Monitors and manages limb swelling proactively
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Provides targeted conditioning for upper or lower limbs