In January 2025, there were more than 18 million people in the U.S. living with a history of cancer, including 4.3 million who have battled breast cancer and 3.5 million who have survived prostate cancer. About half were diagnosed in the past 10 years and nearly 80% are 60 or older.

That's a lot of people who are breathing a sigh of relief — and hoping their cancer never returns or metastasizes.

Well, there's some very good news.

A preliminary study published in the journal Breast Cancer Research and Treatment reveals that a 30-minute session of either resistance training or high-intensity interval training boosts levels of anticancer proteins called myokines, which are produced by muscles and could reduce the growth of cancer by 20% to 30%.

Add the power of exercise to improve lean muscle mass and reduce fat mass, and to quell inflammation, and you're revving up even more protection against recurring cancer.

The researchers also stress that whether you’re undergoing cancer treatment, have just finished your treatment regimen, or are a cancer survivor, you can benefit from working with your doctor to develop a five-day-a-week exercise routine that's right for you.

As you become stronger and more able to exercise, upgrade and expand what you do.