Research suggests that gentle movement, even in small amounts, may help people living with CLL improve their energy, reduce symptoms and maintain quality of life. This may be especially true for those who feel the most fatigue or physical limitations.
Whether you are on active monitoring or receiving treatment, CLL can bring ongoing challenges– persistent fatigue, sleep difficulties, reduced stamina and concern about infections. When energy is already low, the idea of becoming more active can feel unrealistic. Yet growing research offers an encouraging message: safe, manageable movement may actually help ease some of these challenges rather than make them worse.
Fatigue in cancer is often different from ordinary tiredness – it can feel like a deep lack of energy that doesn’t fully improve with rest alone. A recent study published in eJHaem by Miles and colleagues (2025) surveyed 128 people living with CLL to better understand physical activity, symptoms and quality of life. Fatigue was reported by about 77% of participants and insomnia by more than half.
In the study, participants who were more physically active reported better quality of life, better physical functioning and a greater ability to carry out their usual daily activities. They also reported lower levels of fatigue, pain, and overall symptom burden than those who were less active. Notably, nearly 80% of respondents said they would like guidance on exercise for CLL, yet 70% had never received advice from their healthcare team.
Research highlighted in The Conversation UK reinforces these findings. Even gentle activities such as walking, stretching, yoga or swimming can ease cancer-related fatigue. Studies suggest that consistent movement over just a few months can lead to meaningful improvements in energy and overall wellbeing. Importantly, exercise appears safe for people with CLL. Early research indicates it does not accelerate disease progression and may even support immune health.
Encouragingly, those who began with the lowest fitness levels or highest symptom burden often experienced the greatest gains. Starting slowly and building gradually at a pace that feels manageable can lead to real improvements in strength, stamina and confidence.
If movement hasn’t yet been part of your care discussions, consider raising it at your next appointment and asking what type and level of activity would be safe and appropriate for you.Because CLL affects the immune system, sensible precautions are important. Outdoor activities, home-based programs, or visiting facilities during quieter hours can help reduce infection risk.
Living well with CLL is about more than monitoring blood counts. It’s about taking practical steps that support your resilience, help maintain your energy and help you stay engaged in the activities that matter most to you.
If you would like to explore the research further, you can read the full eJHaem article here, and The Conversation UK article here.
To discover more practical tips and supportive resources, visit the Living With CLL section of CLL Canada’s Information and Resource Centre.