In 2025, the landmark CHALLENGE trial revealed that exercise can be as effective as medication in preventing cancer recurrence in colorectal cancer (CRC). New research presented at the 2026 ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium continues to highlight the benefits of exercise. The results? Walking can be a powerful way to combat fatigue and boost quality of life for nonmetastatic patients with CRC.
Walking and recovery: What the study found
In a large international study, researchers followed patients with CRC for two years after diagnosis. They looked at how different levels of physical activity, especially walking, were connected to fatigue and quality of life over time.
The most meaningful improvements were seen in people with nonmetastatic CRC who reported regular walking between 6 and 12 months after diagnosis.
These patients experienced:
- Steady reductions in fatigue over two years
- Improved quality-of-life scores
- Better overall functioning during recovery
Their fatigue scores continued to improve from diagnosis through 24 months. Patients who stayed active during that first year after diagnosis tended to feel better as time went on.
For many survivors, fatigue isn’t just “feeling tired.” It can affect work, relationships, independence, and overall quality of life. Dr. Louisa Liu of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center explains, “Fatigue is one of the most common and debilitating symptoms our patients experience, often long after treatment ends.”
The benefits of exercise after a CRC diagnosis
Nearly 40% of long-term CRC survivors continue to experience moderate-to-severe fatigue years after treatment. That fatigue can slow physical recovery, reduce daily activity, and impact emotional well-being.
There aren’t many treatments specifically for cancer-related fatigue, but lifestyle changes can be effective. Exercise may help by:
- Reducing inflammation in the body
- Preserving muscle mass
- Improving sleep
- Lowering stress and anxiety
It doesn’t have to mean intense workouts. In this study, walking showed the clearest and most consistent benefits.
Being consistent is key
One important takeaway: how active someone was at the time of diagnosis didn’t predict long-term outcomes.
What mattered most was whether patients maintained regular physical activity during the first year after diagnosis. Short bursts of increased activity didn’t seem to move the needle. The key was consistency. MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Dr. Scott Kopetz adds, ““if you can get access to someone who will hold you accountable, that’s where we see real benefit.”
What about patients with metastatic CRC?
Patients with metastatic disease also reported some reductions in fatigue over time, but the improvements were not statistically significant in this study. They had higher fatigue levels overall.
Researchers emphasize that more targeted studies are needed to better understand how physical activity can best support people living with advanced disease.
What this means for you
If you’ve been diagnosed with CRC, incorporating regular walking into your recovery plan may help ease fatigue and improve how you feel day to day. Start slow and choose movement you can realistically maintain, focusing on building a steady routine over time.
Learn more about the latest advancements in CRC and watch our full discussion with Dr. Scott Kopetz.
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