Movement Against Cancer

The advantages of physical activity for cancer sufferers reported in research are wide and varied, and include:
• Improved energy levels
• Reduction in treatment side effects (such as pain and nausea)
• Decreased hospitalization time
• Increase in muscle strength and flexibility
• Better immune function
• Enhanced mood and self-esteem
And perhaps most importantly, evidence demonstrates a link between exercise after diagnosis and improved survival rates (for breast, colon, prostate and ovarian cancer).

Research demonstrates that patients can generally undertake many of the same modalities of exercise as the general population, although often at modified, gentler levels. Exercise types utilised in the MAC program include:
• Aerobic exercise
• Strength training
• Flexibility & range of motion activities
• Balance and co-ordination activities
• Core strength & stability exercises
• Postural correction activities
• Movements specific to assisting in the management of daily activities

While it is common for cancer suffers and their loved ones fear that exercise may exacerbate their condition, activity is considered to be safe when initiated at an appropriate level and progressed gradually. Aside from managing the frequent side-effects of fatigue, low motivation, a compromised immune system and reduced overall fitness, specific care is also taken into account for survivors of particular cancers, each of which presents it’s own set of challenges. This includes guidance and management around issues such as weight loss/gain, specific surgical restrictions, fluid accumulation (lymphedema), skin irritation and incontinence.

Accredited exercise physiologists (AEPs) are allied health professionals specialising in the delivery of exercise for the prevention and management of chronic diseases and injuries. As trained members of the medical and health sector, AEPs possess a four-year university degree that allows them to prescribe graded exercise therapy for specific populations. Beyond cancer, AEPs provide assistance to clients with a range of conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, mental health problems, arthritis, and pulmonary disease. AEPs are able to provide services via Medicare Australia, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and WorkCover and are recognised by most private health insurers.

Patients who are currently undergoing treatment for cancer-related illness, or have undertaken treatment within the past 2 years. The program is suitable whether you were previously inactive and require a safe initiation into a physical activity program, or you were previously active and require guidance returning to exercise.

No referral is required, although a referral from your doctor is useful prior to beginning the program, particularly if you are currently undergoing treatment. Your Exercise Physiologist can help you obtain this.

We have multiple group sessions over the week, some of which are specific to men and
women. Our group timetable is constantly expanding to accommodate our growing
numbers, thus we recommend you check with us before or during your time of booking if
you are interested in undertaking these sessions.

At MAC we realize there is no ‘one size fits all’ plan for everyone. Family and work commitments, travel, medical appointments, treatment regimes and finances are just some of the things that can get in the way. That’s why we keep our program flexible. While our primary model, as outlined previously, is the optimal program we recommend based on current research, we also have a range of ‘substitution’ programs on offer where required. These may include one or a combination of:
• Individual exercise consultations
• Prescription of a home-based exercise plan
• Involvement of other exercise-based therapies (e.g. hydrotherapy)
• Prescription of a gym-based program (or other external facility)
Your Exercise Physiologist can assist you with developing a plan to fit with each of your individual needs.

Yes. Please refer to our Rebates page for more information.

• If obtained, referral documents from your doctor
• A current list of medications and dosages
• Your relevant pathology and imaging reports
• Wear comfortable clothing and closed toe walking / exercise shoes
• Avoid eating a large meal and consuming caffeine in the hours prior to your initial assessment if possible
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes prior to your appointment

Simply call us on (03) 9555 1221 or email us on and we will arrange your initial assessment (health screening) date and subsequent exercise sessions. If you or someone you know is interested in the MAC program but would like to know more, please don’t hesitate to call us if we can assist you with your queries.