Cancer affects millions of people worldwide. In Scotland, over 36,000 new cancer cases were diagnosed in 2022, with lung, breast, bowel, and prostate cancers being the most common (Cancer Strategy Scotland). These figures highlight the continued importance of awareness, prevention and support.

Across our venues, we see every day how physical activity can make a meaningful difference before treatment begins, throughout the process, and during recovery.

Dr Ed Wallace, retired GP and Vice Chair of the Fife Sports and Leisure Trust Board of Directors, explains: “Activity is not a cure for cancer, but it is a powerful tool. Before diagnosis, it can help to reduce risk. During treatment, it supports energy, strength and mental wellbeing. After treatment, it helps people rebuild their confidence and regain a sense of themselves, reduces the risk of recurrence of the cancer and reduces the risk of long-term complications of the treatment.”

Why Physical Activity Matters

Cancer is complex, but research shows that being active can support overall health and help reduce the risk of developing certain cancers.

How movement helps reduce cancer risk:

• Maintain a healthy weight – excess body weight is linked with several cancers.
• Regulate hormones – including growth hormone, testosterone, and oestrogen.
• Support your immune system – regular movement helps immune cells function more effectively.
• Reduce inflammation – long-term inflammation in the body is a known risk factor for many health conditions, including cancer. Exercising muscle has been shown to produce chemicals that reduce chronic inflammation
• Boost cardiovascular health – supporting a stronger heart and healthier circulation.

Dr Ed Wallace adds: “Exercise often gets framed as a ‘chore’, but from a medical point of view, it is one of the most effective ways to support long-term health. Even moderate activity has benefits for almost every system in the body. It is never too late to begin, being active can significantly increase life expectancy and quality of life.”

Being Active During Treatment

Cancer treatment can affect strength, mood and general wellbeing. Rest and recovery are essential, but gentle, supervised activity can help manage the side effects of treatment.

Being active can help to:

• Reduce cancer-related fatigue – even light activity can help people feel less drained overall.
• Support mood and mental wellbeing – movement can ease anxiety and low mood, and provide a sense of control.
• Maintain strength and mobility – making day-to-day tasks easier and supporting independence.
• Improve balance, confidence and sleep – all of which can be affected by treatment.
• Reduce risk of complications – such as ongoing pain or swelling.

Dr Ed Wallace explains: “When someone is going through treatment, the goal is not always ‘fitness’ in the traditional sense. It’s also protecting function and preserving strength. The right type and level of movement, guided by professionals, can help people feel more like themselves during an incredibly challenging time.”

Active Move is a group-based programme specifically for people living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis. It includes:

• Specialist-trained instructors with cancer rehabilitation experience.
• Gentle, progressive exercise plans.
• Support managing fatigue, rebuilding strength, and improving mobility.
• A welcoming, confidence-building environment.

Participants can join through referral from a GP, cancer nurse, hospital team, Maggie’s, or via self-referral depending on circumstances.

Our Partnership with Maggie’s and NHS Fife

We work closely with Maggie’s Fife, Fife Health and Social Care, and NHS teams. We also collaborate with more than 300 referral partners and across the region to ensure people affected by cancer can access safe and supportive physical activity.

Through our partnerships, we:

• Deliver cancer support programmes at Maggie’s Centre at Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy.
• Provide clear referral pathways from clinical teams into our community classes.
• Support people transitioning from clinical care to everyday movement in local venues.

Dr Ed Wallace highlights: “The partnership between Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, Maggie’s, NHS Fife, and Fife Health and Social Care Partnership ensures that no one is left navigating their recovery alone. We offer clinically informed, compassionate support that continues long after treatment ends.”

Hear From Our Participants

Hear from Yolanda about her experience with Active Move:

Getting Started

Whether you’re living with cancer, recovering from treatment, or looking to reduce your risk, we’re here to help you take the first step.

Speak to Our Team

Our friendly Health and Wellbeing instructors can guide you through safe, adapted movement at your own pace.

Ask Your Clinical Team

If you’re currently undergoing treatment, speak to your GP, consultant, cancer nurse, or Maggie’s team about referral to a physical activity programme.

Explore Our Programmes

Find out more about Active Move, Active Options, and our wider Health and Wellbeing programme at: www.fifeleisure.org.uk/health-wellbeing

Please note: this information is for general guidance only and should not replace professional medical advice.

Sources and References:

• Cancer Strategy Scotland: https://www.gov.scot/publications/cancer-strategy-scotland-2023-2033/pages/3/
• Maggie’s: https://www.maggies.org/our-centres/maggies-fife/
• NHS Fife: https://www.nhsfife.org/services/all-services/cancer-services/
• Fife Health and Social Care: https://www.fifehealthandsocialcare.org/
• Macmillan, Reducing Risk: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/about-us/latest-news/news-and-stories/reducing-the-risk
• Macmillan, Physical Activity and Cancer: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/treatment/preparing-for-treatment/physical-activity-and-cancer/faqs
• The BASES Expert Statement on Exercise and Cancer Survivorship: https://www.cases.org.uk/imgs/cancer_survive856.pdf