Bringing evidence-based outdoor exercise for people affected by cancer to the UK.
Outdoor Against Cancer is coming to Wild Roots
​​
Wild Roots is working with Outdoor Against Cancer to bring its evidence-based outdoor exercise approach to our programmes in the UK.
Founder Phil Briggs is undertaking OAC's specialist trainer programme, and Wild Roots is preparing to introduce OAC 4×4 Training after certification.
​
Outdoor Against Cancer (OAC) is an international non-profit organisation that promotes evidence-based physical activity, outdoor exercise, and health education for people affected by cancer.
​
Its approach closely complements the Wild Roots philosophy - bringing together movement, nature and connection to help people build physical capacity, confidence and wellbeing during and after cancer.
​​
WHY OAC + WILD ROOTS ?
Wild Roots and Outdoor Against Cancer share a belief in the role that movement, nature and connection can play in supporting people affected by cancer.
​
Wild Roots' own programmes offer different ways to reconnect with the outdoors, other people and confidence in everyday life. OAC adds an established, structured approach to outdoor physical training.
​
Together, they help people find a movement approach that reflects where they are in their cancer experience, from gentle supported walking to more progressive outdoor exercise.
OAC itself places physical activity and outdoor sport, nature, health education and physical and mental wellbeing at the centre of its approach.
WHAT WILL BE AVAILABLE ?
Following Phil's certification, Wild Roots plans to introduce OAC 4×4 Training as part of its growing programme of outdoor support for people living with and beyond cancer.
​
As our relationship with Outdoor Against Cancer develops, we hope to explore further opportunities to bring OAC's evidence-based approach to communities in the UK.
Interested in taking part?
​
If you'd like to hear when the first Wild Roots OAC sessions are announced, register your interest and we'll keep you updated.
​
​
The 4×4 Outdoor Training Method
One of the core programmes developed by Outdoor Against Cancer is the OAC 4×4 Training Method.
Designed for people during and after cancer, it combines structured outdoor interval training with functional strength, mobility and coordination exercises.
A typical 4×4 session includes:
• a guided warm-up
• four 4-minute intervals of brisk walking or running
• active recovery between intervals
• functional strength, mobility and coordination exercises
• a guided cool-down
The intensity is adapted to the individual. For one person, a four-minute interval might mean running; for another, it might mean brisk walking. The aim is to work at an appropriate level and progressively build physical capacity.
​
OAC's evidence-based approach supports cardiovascular fitness, including VOâ‚‚max, while helping address reduced physical capacity and treatment-related fatigue that can accompany cancer and its treatment.
Because sessions take place outdoors in a group, physical training is combined with nature, connection, and shared experience.
​
What a Session Feels Like
Sessions are supportive, welcoming and non-competitive.
Everyone trains according to their ability and current physical condition, with exercises adapted as needed.
For people affected by cancer, becoming physically active again can sometimes bring uncertainty about what their body can safely do. OAC provides a structured approach to gradually rebuilding physical capacity and confidence.
The emphasis isn't on competing with anyone else. It's about movement, progress and discovering what your body can do now, outdoors and alongside others.
Who This Is For
Outdoor Against Cancer 4×4 Training is designed for people during and after cancer who want to become more physically active in a structured, supportive outdoor environment.
​
The programme can be adapted to different levels of physical ability and fitness. You don't need to be a runner or consider yourself particularly fit to take part.
​
Before joining, participants will receive information about suitability and any required health assessment or medical clearance.
​
Evidence Behind the Programme
Outdoor Against Cancer's training is grounded in exercise oncology and exercise physiology, with its 4×4 methodology adapting established interval-training principles for people affected by cancer.
​
OAC's 4×4 approach is designed to improve cardiovascular capacity, including VOâ‚‚max, while supporting functional strength, mobility and coordination. OAC also highlights the role of structured exercise in addressing treatment-related fatigue and supporting quality of life.
​
The programme brings this structured physical training outdoors — combining exercise with nature, social connection and group support.
​
You can explore the research and evidence behind the approach directly through Outdoor Against Cancer.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS COURSE
Get in touch so we can send you course dates and locations.
Thank you, we will be in touch shortly
