Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT), also known as hormone therapy, is one of the most common and effective treatments for prostate cancer. But while it helps slow the growth of cancer cells, it also comes with significant side effects that can impact strength, energy, mood, bone health, and body composition. What many people don’t realise is that exercise can be one of the most powerful tools to manage these side effects and protect long-term health.
At The Active Studio, our Accredited Exercise Physiologists work closely with men on ADT to help them feel stronger, more confident, and more in control, both during treatment and into survivorship.
What Is ADT, and Why Does It Matter?
ADT works by reducing testosterone levels to slow or stop the growth of prostate cancer cells. While this can be life-saving, it can also lead to:
- Loss of muscle mass
- Increased body fat
- Bone mineral density loss (osteopenia/osteoporosis)
- Fatigue and reduced energy
- Mood changes, anxiety, and depression
- Lowered libido and sexual dysfunction
The Research Is Clear: Exercise Works
Studies show that supervised, individualised exercise during ADT can reduce and even reverse many of these side effects.
🔬 A landmark study by Galvão et al. (2010) found that resistance and aerobic exercise during ADT significantly improved:
- Lean muscle mass
- Physical function
- Fatigue levels
- Quality of life
- Mental wellbeing
🔬 More recent evidence confirms that exercise not only improves day-to-day health, it may reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and progression. This is why the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) recommends that exercise be prescribed as a standard part of cancer care just like surgery or medication.
How Exercise Helps During ADT
✅ Builds or preserves muscle mass – Counteracts the catabolic effects of testosterone suppression.
✅ Improves bone health – Weight-bearing and resistance exercise help maintain bone density and reduce fracture risk.
✅ Boosts energy and reduces fatigue – Especially important when fatigue is a dominant side effect.
✅ Supports metabolic and cardiovascular health – Helps manage cholesterol, blood pressure, and body fat.
✅ Improves mental health and confidence – Regular movement releases endorphins and restores a sense of control.
How We Support You at The Active Studio
Our men’s health programs are designed with:
- Tailored 1:1 assessments
- Safe, progressive strength and aerobic training
- Pelvic floor support when needed
- Ongoing monitoring and education
- Long-term strategies for survivorship and recurrence prevention
We’ll meet you wherever you’re at whether you’re starting ADT, currently in treatment, or adjusting to life beyond prostate cancer.
Don’t wait for the side effects to take over. Let’s work together to build a stronger, more resilient version of you, starting today.
📩 info@theactivestudio.com.au | 📞 0431 978 752
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