Sept. 2, 2026

Can Exercise Actually Fight Cancer? The Science of Movement with JC Rodriguez

Can Exercise Actually Fight Cancer? The Science of Movement with JC Rodriguez

Can working out actually change what's happening inside your body during cancer treatment? Dr. Leah Sherman sits down with certified clinical exercise physiologist JC Rodriguez to unpack the real science behind exercise and cancer—including how movement may redirect blood flow away from tumors, alter tumor metabolism, and boost immune surveillance. JC breaks down what this looks like in practice: how to move through severe fatigue with “mentally small” wins like a 5-minute walk or in-...

Can working out actually change what's happening inside your body during cancer treatment?

Dr. Leah Sherman sits down with certified clinical exercise physiologist JC Rodriguez to unpack the real science behind exercise and cancer—including how movement may redirect blood flow away from tumors, alter tumor metabolism, and boost immune surveillance.

JC breaks down what this looks like in practice: how to move through severe fatigue with “mentally small” wins like a 5-minute walk or in-bed stretches, why consistency matters more than intensity, and general targets for cardio and strength training (individualized to each person). He also covers managing joint pain from hormone therapy, exercising safely with a port, and where to find accessible, cancer-specific fitness support — from YMCA Livestrong to ACSM-certified specialists.

Visit JC’s website and learn more https://www.oncolofit.com/

Download JC’s FREE Get Stronger in 21 Days Guide: https://oncolofit.aweb.page/thriving-after-cancer-guide

Get his FREE Cancer Recovery Starter Kit: https://www.oncolofit.com/beat-cancer

Follow JC on social media:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/oncolofit/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@jc.oncolofit
YouTube https://youtube.com/@jc.oncolofit

00:41 Meet JC Rodriguez
01:28 What Is Cancer Exercise Science
03:15 How Exercise Fights Cancer
05:49 Starting With Fatigue
09:06 Low Impact Options
10:05 Inflammation And Movement
11:37 How Much Exercise Weekly
12:45 Strength Training Basics
14:00 Weight Gain And Muscle Loss
18:15 Radiation Fatigue Differences
19:45 Hormone Therapy Joint Pain
23:48 Exercising With A Port
31:01 How To Find A Cancer Exercise Program
34:41 Why J.C. Chose Oncology
37:16 Free Downloadable Guides And Tips
38:27 Final Advice And Wrap Up

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