Many cancer patients complain of fatigue; in the past this has led to patients being advised to rest. However, this may lead to a vicious cycle of deconditioning, which leads to further impaired performance, and subsequently can reduce quality of life. This review was undertaken to establish the benefits of exercise in cancer patients, and to make recommendations for clinical practice regarding the best way to exercise such patients. The literature on exercise programmes in patients with a cancer diagnosis published over the last 19 years was reviewed and critically appraised. Studies reviewed demonstrated many physical and psychological benefits of exercise, and some recommendations can be established from the current research to guide clinicians. However, the methodology and patient populations used in some of the research to date are questionable, and further research is required to establish the most effective way of providing exercise for this patient group.

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