Implementation Guide “Step by Step Towards Autonomous Physical Activity in Cancer Care” Supports Healthcare Professionals and Exercise Specialists

Physical activity is a powerful form of medicine, also during and after cancer. Yet, helping people with cancer remain physically active over the long term can be challenging. Fatigue, uncertainty, and a lack of guidance often make it difficult to sustain healthy intentions. Healthcare professionals and exercise specialists play a key role in supporting patients to overcome these barriers, but providing structured and sustainable guidance is not always straightforward.

To support professionals, the implementation guide “Step by Step Towards Autonomous Physical Activity in Cancer Care” was developed. The guide brings together more than 40 practical tools for both professionals and people living with or beyond cancer. It offers a clear, step-by-step approach, covering awareness, assessment, motivation, advice, and referral to appropriate exercise opportunities within or outside the hospital setting. Each step includes ready-to-use resources that can be immediately applied in practice.

The guide was developed through a collaboration between Artevelde University of Applied Sciences, AZORG, Ghent University Hospital, and Ghent University, with support from the Ghent University Social Valorisation Fund.

You can download the guide via this link. 

More information:

Vicky Van Stappen – vicky.vanstappen@arteveldehogeschool.be
Renée Bultijnck – renee.bultijnck@ugent.be