The way women with breast cancer approach exercise may necessitate to be more targeted, according to new research published in Sports Medicine. A comprehensive analysis of existing studies suggests that although exercise is crucial for supportive cancer care, the *type* of exercise—resistance training versus aerobic, or a combination—can significantly impact outcomes like muscle strength, fatigue levels, and overall physical function. The findings underscore the importance of individualized exercise programs tailored to a patient’s treatment stage and personal goals.
Researchers, led by Pedro Lopez, Honorary Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Respiratory Health, Associate Professor at the University of Caxias do Sul, and Adjunct Lecturer at Edith Cowan University, conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis encompassing 116 randomized controlled trials and over 9,206 women with breast cancer. Their function, examining the effects of different exercise modalities, revealed that resistance exercise alone yielded the greatest improvements in muscle strength and lean mass. Here’s particularly relevant, as cancer treatments can often lead to muscle loss and weakness.
Resistance Training: Building Strength During and After Treatment
The study found that resistance training—exercises involving weights, resistance bands, or body weight—was most effective at preserving and increasing muscle mass and strength. This is a critical benefit for breast cancer patients, who may experience significant physical decline during chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy. Maintaining muscle mass isn’t just about physical appearance; it’s linked to improved metabolic health, immune function, and overall quality of life.
While combined exercise programs (incorporating both resistance and aerobic exercise) too showed benefits, particularly in reducing fatigue and improving physical function, the gains in muscle mass and strength were sometimes smaller compared to resistance training alone. The researchers noted that resistance training appeared to be particularly beneficial during specific treatments like chemotherapy and hormone therapy.
The Role of Combined Exercise and Individualized Programs
The research doesn’t dismiss the value of combined exercise. For patients prioritizing broader fitness improvements—cardiovascular health, endurance, and overall well-being—a combination of resistance and aerobic exercise remains a valuable strategy. However, the study highlights the need for a nuanced approach.
“Exercise is a cornerstone of supportive cancer care, but the optimal exercise strategy depends on treatment stage and patient goals,” Lopez explained in a LinkedIn post detailing the findings. “If the priority is preserving or increasing muscle mass and strength, resistance exercise alone may be the most effective approach.”
Beyond the Study: A Call for Personalized Exercise Oncology
The findings are resonating with clinicians in the field of exercise oncology. Scott Capozza, a Physical Therapist at Yale University, shared the research on LinkedIn, emphasizing the need to move beyond generic exercise recommendations. “It’s not just enough to advise our patients with cancer to ‘go for a walk’ or ‘sure, you can go back to the gym’…especially if they justifiably feel like their bodies have betrayed them,” Capozza wrote. “Exercise and rehabilitation prescription needs to be individualized based on stage of treatment, patient report of adverse effects, and patient goals.”
Further research is exploring how exercise-induced changes in body composition—such as increases in lean mass—may influence inflammatory responses in breast cancer survivors. A secondary analysis published in July 2025 in PubMed found that increases in lean mass were significantly associated with reductions in the inflammatory marker IL-6, suggesting a potential link between exercise, body composition, and reduced risk of cancer recurrence.
The study authors acknowledge the contributions of Regis Radaelli, Anderson Rech, Maria Petropoulou, Francesco Bettariga, Favil Singh, Talita Molinari, Caroline B Silveira, Cindranne T. Muller, and Priscila Casara in supporting the research.
As the field of exercise oncology continues to evolve, the emphasis is shifting towards precision—matching exercise prescriptions to the unique needs and goals of each patient. The next step will involve further research to refine these guidelines and develop practical tools for clinicians to implement personalized exercise programs in the clinic.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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