Can a Single Workout Help Fight Cancer? New Research Says Yes

Here at Natural Balance Physiotherapy, we often talk about how exercise helps with strength, recovery, mobility - and yes, pain relief - but exciting new research suggests exercise might have even greater benefits. According to a study published in The Washington Post (based on work from Edith Cowan University, Australia), a single session of intense exercise may actually slow cancer cell growth.

A team of researchers in Australia asked 32 breast cancer survivors, all previously inactive, to complete either a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session or a resistance training workout. Each session lasted about 45 minutes and pushed participants to around 7-8 out of 10 in terms of effort.

Blood samples were taken before and after the workout, then tested in the lab against breast cancer cells. The results were remarkable: blood taken after exercise slowed cancer cell growth and, in some cases, even triggered cancer cell death.

The strongest effects came from HIIT. Researchers linked this to a spike in a muscle-released protein called IL-6, which seems to play a role in suppressing cancer cell activity. In other words, your muscles don’t just move you, they release signals that can directly influence health at the cellular level.

Of course, this is early research. The study was small, lab-based, and only looked at breast cancer cells. But it adds to growing evidence that exercise doesn’t just make you feel better - it may actively shape cancer outcomes.

So, what does this mean for you? Even one workout matters. While long-term consistency is key, this study shows the body responds immediately to movement. For cancer survivors, prescribed exercise could become as essential as medication or follow-up care.

In summary, this research is a powerful reminder: exercise isn’t just about fitness. It’s medicine. And even one higher intensity session can start making a difference.

Hard work is required to stimulate the physiological changes and bring about the necessary adaptations and benefits. If you’re a cancer survivor, thinking about exercise, or supporting someone who is - it’s time to consider regular, purpose-driven movement as part of the recovery journey.

At Natural Balance, we specialise in tailoring effective exercise programmes for people at every stage of health and recovery and, if you are not used to exercising regularly, we can go through the process with you and help you graduate up to the required levels.  Remember, change is possible. Simply book an initial consultation with our team of physiotherapists here.