November is Men’s Health Awareness Month—a time to spread knowledge, support those affected, and promote strategies that improve quality of life for Prostate Cancer patients. Recent research underscores a crucial message: exercise, especially targeted resistance and impact training, can play a significant role in helping men manage the side effects of prostate cancer treatment.
A groundbreaking study published in 2025 by Ragle et al. highlights the potential benefits of high-intensity resistance and impact training for men with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer and bone metastases. This clinical trial explores how tailored exercise programs can help maintain bone health, improve strength, and reduce treatment-related side effects.
Why is this important?
Prostate cancer treatments, including hormone therapy, often come with challenging side effects such as muscle loss, fatigue, and weakened bones—particularly concerning for men with bone metastases. Traditionally, managing these side effects has been limited, but emerging evidence suggests that exercise can serve as a powerful, non-pharmacological intervention.
What does the research say?
The study by Ragle and colleagues is pioneering in its focus on high-intensity resistance and impact training specifically designed for this patient group. The trial aims to determine whether such exercise regimens are safe and effective in improving physical function, bone density, and overall well-being. Early findings support the idea that appropriately supervised and individualized exercise programs can mitigate some of the adverse effects of prostate cancer treatments.
Key Takeaways:
- Exercise matters: Engaging in resistance and impact training can help preserve muscle mass and bone strength.
- Safety first: Programs should be tailored to individual health status, especially in the presence of bone metastases.
- Consult healthcare professionals: Before starting any new exercise routine, discuss with your medical team to ensure safety and appropriateness.
- Empower yourself: Staying active is a vital part of managing side effects and maintaining quality of life during and after treatment.
This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, remember that taking an active role in your health—including incorporating suitable exercise—can make a meaningful difference. Talk to your healthcare provider about personalized exercise plans and consider the emerging evidence that supports movement as a cornerstone of supportive care in prostate cancer management.
Stay informed, stay active, and support each other in this journey.
Ragle, AM., Mikkelsen, M.K., Vinther, A. et al. High-intensity resistance and impact training for patients with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer and bone metastases—study protocol of a randomized clinical trial. Trials 26, 259 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-025-08937-0