• Clinical Services
Clinical Services
Exercise Oncology
Fundação Champalimaud

Physical Activity

For the Prevention and Treatment of Cancer

The Champalimaud Foundation Exercise Oncology team aims to implement and promote evidence-based physical exercise programmes to mitigate the adverse effects of cancer and its treatments. Supervised by exercise physiologists specialised in oncology, these individualised programmes promote the improvement of functional capacity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscle strength, contributing to the recovery and well-being of patients.

Structured physical exercise plays a key role in reducing fatigue, preserving muscle mass, improving body composition, strengthening the immune system, and promoting metabolic health. The multidisciplinary approach of the gym team, in coordination with the different units of the Foundation, ensures that the exercise prescription is safe, effective, and tailored to the individual needs of each patient, following the guidelines of international reference organisations.

The training programmes include cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular strength work, as well as the incorporation of mobility, stability, and balance exercises. The initial assessment consists of questionnaires and a physical evaluation, and the training programme can be started immediately after diagnosis and adapted to each stage of treatment.

Location: 1st Floor, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown Main Building, next to the Cafeteria.

Contacts: 
T. (+351) 210 480 077
E: gymchampalimaud@gmail.com

Exercise Oncology

Testemonials

“Thank you so much for everything you’ve given me over these months. You are the good part of cancer! Keep healing the body and the soul.” – Breast Cancer Unit Patient

“This team was my emotional, physical, and psychological support, everything I needed. Thank you for that! Having you, with your professionalism and friendship, minimises everything else we’re going through. (...) thank you so much!” – Digestive Cancer Unit Patient

“It’s a great pleasure to be part of this group that works with this population, so effective and friendly... It almost feels good to have been sick and treated at this institution. Training with this dream team is truly a privilege. Keep going…” – Digestive Cancer Unit Patient

“Due to not knowing about the existence of the gym, I searched throughout Lisbon for a place suitable for physical exercise, adapted to my physical limitations caused by the disease. And there is nothing! Only at the FC did I find a group of professionals, with academic knowledge and the necessary skills to develop personalised training adapted to my situation. Besides the physical aspect, I believe the good environment and the interaction with professionals, and among patients, brought some tranquility. Knowing and interacting with people with similar problems gives us some relief. 'After all, we are not alone'... 'It didn’t only happen to us.' So, I thank the entire Gym team, as well as FC, for this valuable space available to patients during this difficult phase of our lives.” – Lung Cancer Unit Patient
 

Exercise Oncology

The Team

Meet our team

The dedicated team members, including experienced physiologists and professionals, work closely together to provide the highest level of care and support.

Carla Malveiro

Carla Malveiro

Coordinator of Exercise Programmes

Catarina Cargaleiro

Exercise Physiologist

Gonçalo Caseirito

Exercise Physiologist

Sofia Hilario

Exercise Physiologist

Loading
Please wait...