Kathryn H. Schmitz, PhD, MPH, Joachim Wiskemann , PhD, Anne M. May, PhD
Journal of the National Cancer Institute Monographs, 2025, Vol. 2025, No. 71
Summary
Exercise oncology has rapidly matured into a recognized discipline, supported by over 30,000 peer-reviewed publications and multiple international guidelines. Evidence from randomized controlled trials (3,000+) demonstrates that structured exercise benefits individuals living with and beyond cancer by reducing treatment-related side effects, improving quality of life, and potentially influencing treatment outcomes. Major organizations, including the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and the American Cancer Society, have integrated exercise recommendations into survivorship care guidelines.
Despite robust evidence, exercise oncology remains underrepresented at major oncology and medical conferences. To address this gap, nearly 200 researchers, clinicians, and practitioners convened in 2024 to establish the International Society of Exercise Oncology (ISEO). This organization aims to provide a central forum for collaboration, accreditation, workforce development, and global dissemination of evidence-based practices. The first international scientific meeting is scheduled for July 22 & 23, 2026 in Heidelberg, Germany. https://exercise-oncology.org/iseo-conference-2026/
Key themes of the monograph include the importance of patient perspectives, the evolution of the field from symptom management to cancer biology and survival outcomes, and the global variability in workforce readiness and program access. Emphasis is placed on credentialing specialized exercise professionals, as general exercise guidance is insufficient to address complex issues such as cancer-related fatigue, neuropathy, lymphedema, and treatment side effects. The monograph also highlights digital exercise delivery models as a promising approach to expand access while recognizing potential safety and quality challenges.
Clinical Implications
For clinicians, exercise should be regarded as an evidence-based adjunct to cancer treatment, on par with nutrition and psychosocial care. Referrals to trained exercise oncology professionals should be integrated into standard care pathways, ensuring patients receive tailored interventions. The field’s maturation supports policy advocacy for reimbursement models and institutional integration, particularly in underserved regions. Digital platforms may provide scalable solutions, though safety and supervision remain essential.
Focused Summary
Exercise oncology has entered a new era of recognition and global collaboration. With the establishment of ISEO, the discipline is positioned to unify research, clinical practice, and workforce development, advancing the goal of making exercise a standard component of oncology care worldwide.
