Cancer & Strength Training: From Diagnosis to Dumbbells with Sarah Marsh - Ep 033
Update: 2025-11-26
Description
🎙️ Episode 33: Strength training during cancer treatment? Absolutely.
In this powerful episode, physiotherapist Sarah Marsh shares why exercise—particularly strength training—is emerging as "exercise medicine" for oncology patients, and why 85-90% of people who stop exercising after their diagnosis should reconsider.
In this powerful episode, physiotherapist Sarah Marsh shares why exercise—particularly strength training—is emerging as "exercise medicine" for oncology patients, and why 85-90% of people who stop exercising after their diagnosis should reconsider.
Sarah reveals the surprising science behind how strength training changes our physiology during cancer treatment, including the role of myokines in pushing back against cancer cells and how oxygenating tissues can improve treatment efficacy. She explains why people who maintain regular exercise through diagnosis, surgery, and treatment consistently fare better than those who don't.
What you'll discover:
- Why most cancer patients immediately stop all exercise (and why that's exactly the wrong move)
- The real story behind lifting restrictions after breast cancer surgery
- How to adapt strength training for common side effects like fatigue, joint pain, and treatment-related complications
- Why the 12-week timeframe is crucial for building both strength and new habits
- The unexpected challenges prostate cancer patients face (and rarely discuss)
- How building muscle strength helps manage menopause symptoms triggered by cancer medication
- Where to find qualified cancer rehab professionals and supportive communities
- The real story behind lifting restrictions after breast cancer surgery
- How to adapt strength training for common side effects like fatigue, joint pain, and treatment-related complications
- Why the 12-week timeframe is crucial for building both strength and new habits
- The unexpected challenges prostate cancer patients face (and rarely discuss)
- How building muscle strength helps manage menopause symptoms triggered by cancer medication
- Where to find qualified cancer rehab professionals and supportive communities
Sarah shares real patient transformations—from the woman who no longer needs daily pain medication after just 4 weeks, to the "Naughty Step" WhatsApp group that turned treatment challenges into community support.
If you or someone you know has received a cancer diagnosis and thinks strength training isn't possible right now, this episode will change your mind.
For the full show notes page, go to:
https://nevertoooldtolift.com/podcast033/
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Penny Brohn, a wonderful charity supporting all cancers. Offer online exercise sessions
https://pennybrohn.org.uk/
Pinc and Steel – physio-led exercises during and post cancer
Get Me Back - Online cancer fitness memberships
https://www.getmeback.uk/
https://www.getmeback.uk/
Menopause and Cancer - Help with symptoms around menopause and cancer.
Prostate Cancer Resource - Exercise program to support people undergoing hormone therapy as part of their prostate cancer treatment.
https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/about-us/our-impact/healthy-life/cancer-activity-programme#nhs-trusts
Sarah's Instagram - @yogiphysiosarah
https://www.instagram.com/yogiphysiosarah/
Genesis Care UK's Instagram - @genesiscareuk
https://www.instagram.com/genesiscareuk/
How you can get started with your strength training journey:
📹 Free Masterclass - Strength Training as an Older Adult - https://nevertoooldtolift.com/strength-training-masterclass/
📘 Free Never Too Old to Lift eBook - https://nevertoooldtolift.com/ebook
📖 Paperback version of Never Too Old to Lift from Amazon - https://geni.us/ntotlbook
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nevertoooldtolift/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nevertoooldtolift/
TikTok: tiktok.com/@nevertoooldtolift
Remember: It's never too late to start building strength, but it's always smart to start safely!
⚠️ Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.
Sarah's Instagram - @yogiphysiosarah
https://www.instagram.com/yogiphysiosarah/
Genesis Care UK's Instagram - @genesiscareuk
https://www.instagram.com/genesiscareuk/
How you can get started with your strength training journey:
📹 Free Masterclass - Strength Training as an Older Adult - https://nevertoooldtolift.com/strength-training-masterclass/
📘 Free Never Too Old to Lift eBook - https://nevertoooldtolift.com/ebook
📖 Paperback version of Never Too Old to Lift from Amazon - https://geni.us/ntotlbook
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nevertoooldtolift/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nevertoooldtolift/
TikTok: tiktok.com/@nevertoooldtolift
Remember: It's never too late to start building strength, but it's always smart to start safely!
⚠️ Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.
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