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EXERCISE is a vital component of a cancer fighter’s treatment and survivorship plan. There is an abundance of evidence-based research that demonstrates the benefits of exercise in reducing the onset and recurrence of cancer. There are other benefits associated with exercise, such as reducing cancer-related fatigue and lowering the risk of lymphedema. 

1.

Start small ...go for short walks

2.

Find a partner...keep each other accountable

3.

Join a class...they’re great because you don’t have to think about what exercises to do. Leave the thinking to the instructor / trainer :)

4.

Use an app to track your progress...earning badges on apps like Fitbit and Runkeeper can keep you motivated

5.

Sign up for an event...Make it a goal to build up enough stamina to finish a 5K and claim that medal!

TIPS FROM A SURVIVOR...

Free Exercise Resources for Cancer Survivors

UH Cancer Exercise Rehabilitation Study

The UH Cancer Center

Participate in a study to show how exercise diminishes the toxic effects associated with cancer therapies. Offers 12 weeks of personalized training sessions (90-minutes each) with professional Kinesiology students (3x/week). With your help, the UHCC can study how cancer exercise rehabilitation improves the health, fitness and quality of life for cancer patients.

Hawaii Running Project

A group training session five days a week to encourage healthy habits and wellness, no matter where you are in your running journey. The sessions include runs in different locations around Honolulu, including Ala Moana Beach Park, Kapi‘olani Park and Hawaiʻi Kai.

Tai Chi in the park with Greg Yuen, M.D.

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Dr. Greg Yuen’s class reminds you to slow down, breathe and focus on one thing at a time. Dr. Yuen teaches the Yang-style long form sequence, a 128-step progression to calm the mind and body. Dr. Yuen shares, “I wanted people to have an opportunity to have good health without money getting in the way."

(Maui) Imua PT with Maui Mel

Oncology Yoga

In-person restorative yoga sessions designed specifically for cancer warriors and survivors in Kīhei. For participants of all abilities and all stages of treatment. Taught by Maui Mel RYT instructor who is a breast cancer survivor and yoga practitioner for 20+ years.

Walk Group

Walk with a Doc

A healthcare provider-led walking group throughout the year. Walks begin with a brief discussion on a current health topic and then participants enjoy a healthy walk and conversation.

In-Person Classes

Fitness Classes for Seniors

SilverSneakers

Available through select Medicare plans, they offer live online classes tailored for the senior population throughout the week in areas such as yoga, strength building, and low-impact aerobics.

Dance Exercise and Meditation Classes

Moving for Life

A movement program dedicated to enhancing the overall health and well-being of older adults and individuals affected by cancer and chronic illnesses. Their exercise protocols and dance sequences, crafted by Dr. Martha Eddy, are designed to deepen the connection between mind and body, information to avoid injury, promote faster recovery, and support sustained wellness.

Wellness Workshops

Unite for Her

A 6-week series on various survivorship topics including fitness, nutrition, meditation, yoga, and other integrative therapies. You can join live or watch past video recordings on demand.

Online Classes

Couch to Fitness

Our Parks (UK)

A 9-week series of 30-minute workout videos. Other programs are available such as: Family Fit, Bitesize (5-minutes), and dance-based Afrobics and Bhangra. The sessions are suitable for all fitness levels and no equipment is needed.

Functional Fitness

Unite for Her

A six 15-minute videos instructed by Priscilla Fitzpatrick, an ACE Cancer Exercise Specialist, Cancer and Fitness Certified Instructor, yoga instructor (E-RYT), and cancer survivor. Note: You can view the videos on Vimeo for more viewing features (full-screen, casting to TV, etc.)

Free Workout for People with Breast Cancer

Living Beyond Breast Cancer

A 3-week exercise series featuring 9 workouts of about 20 minutes each, designed for people who are going through or recovering from treatment, preparing for surgeries, or regaining mobility after surgery. Join real members with breast cancer who are thriving and exercising alongside host Sami Mansfield.

Cancer Fit

Livestrong

Training videos led by personal trainers certified in exercise oncology, designed to help cancer survivors rebuild strength, energy, and confidence after cancer treatment. With over 250 videos available to watch 24/7 on YouTube, from gentle yoga to high-intensity interval training, you’re sure to find a way to move that fits your recovery goals.

Videos

Cancer Risk and Prevention

American Cancer Society

Provides practical guidance on incorporating physical activity into everyday life to improve overall health and help lower cancer risk. It includes tips for getting started, setting achievable activity goals, reducing sedentary time, and building consistent exercise habits.

Exercise and Breast Cancer

Living Beyond Breast Cancer

Offers evidence-based guidance for people diagnosed with breast cancer on exercising during and after treatment. It discusses potential benefits such as reducing fatigue, joint pain, anxiety, and depression, as well as guidance for getting started safely. Also includes the free BeACTive workout series for different fitness and energy levels.

Physical Activity and Cancer

UT MD Anderson (Rehabilitation Services)

Provides information on how regular physical activity may reduce the risk of certain cancers. Goes in-depth on how exercise supports healthy body functions and offers practical suggestions, along with a sample exercise plan.

Articles

Veteran Health Events and Programs

Team Red, White & Blue

Enriches lives of veterans through events, programs, and virtual challenges that are focused on building a healthy lifestyle (includes a Hawaiʻi chapter). Their programs address the unique needs of America’s Veterans, concentrating on their well-being.

FitOn Fitness & Wellness

FitOn

On-demand workouts, including yoga, pilates, stretching, strength training, cardio, dance, and even guided meditation. With options for all fitness levels and workout lengths, many requiring no equipment, they make it easy to stay active at home or on the go. All workouts are free; premium features such as recipes, heart rate tracking are $30/year.

Cancer Exercise App

Cancer Exercise

Research-backed exercise app designed for people living with and beyond cancer. Personalized exercise programs adapt to your abilities, energy, and recovery—so you know what to do, how much to do, and when to rest.

Apps

Did you find this free resource list useful? 

Breast Cancer Hawaii is a small non-profit startup and relies on donations from our supporters so that we can continue connecting breast cancer survivors and fighters in Hawaii with useful resources. Please help us continue our mission by donating to our cause. 

Thank you for your support!!

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