The advantages of physical activity for people with cancer reported in research are wide and varied, and include:

• Enhanced energy levels
• Improved physical function
• Increased strength and muscle mass
• Improved balance and reduced risk of falls
• Improved sleep
• Enhanced quality of life
• Maintained bone density
• Decreased body fat
• Reduced risk of other chronic disease (such as heart disease and diabetes)
• Reduced anxiety and depression
• Non-exacerbation of lymphedema
• Improved survival rates after diagnosis (for breast, colon and prostate 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 and range of motion activities
• Balance and co-ordination activities
• Core strength and stability exercises
• Pelvic floor strengthening
• 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), bone metastases 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 allied 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.

Those who are currently undertaking treatment for cancer, or have done so previously. 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 recommend ideally attending twice per week, in line with exercise guidelines for cancer patients and survivors to perform two to three resistance (strength) training sessions per week. However ultimately frequency of attendance will depend on the treatment plan developed in consultation with your Exercise Physiologist, which will take into account all of your individual circumstances.

We have multiple group sessions over the week, most 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.

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

Simply call us on (03) 9555 1221 or email us and we will arrange your initial appointment for health screening.