A pilot study of group exercise training (GET) for women with primary breast cancer: feasibility and health benefits.
Evidence is accumulating for physical activity as an effective, well-tolerated, highly rewarding complementary behavioral intervention for enhancing quality of life (QOL) as well as fitness among individuals with chronic and even terminal illnesses. However, relatively few studies have examined the feasibility and potential health benefits of supervised, structured exercise programs for sedentary women with primary breast cancer. Forty women over the age of 45 with primary breast cancer participated in a course of group exercise training (GET) delivered in a structured format three times per week for 16 weeks. GET emphasizes physical activities that promote aerobic fitness, strength, and flexibility. Assessments of fitness/vigor and QOL were conducted prior to, during, and upon completion of the program. Results demonstrated that GET was feasible, safe, and well-tolerated. Moreover, the participants experienced significant health benefits over the course of the intervention in multiple dimensions of fitness/vigor (aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility) as well as QOL (increased positive affect, decreased distress, enhanced well-being, and improved functioning). Discussion highlights the need for inclusion of physical activity programs in comprehensive, complementary treatment regimes for breast cancer patients.
Kolden
Gregory G
GG
Health Emotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison Medical School 53719-1179, USA. ggkolden@facstaff.wisc.edu
Strauman
Timothy J
TJ
Ward
Ann
A
Kuta
Jackie
J
Woods
Teresa E
TE
Schneider
Kristin L
KL
Heerey
Erin
E
Sanborn
Lisa
L
Burt
Cathy
C
Millbrandt
Lisa
L
Kalin
Ned H
NH
Stewart
James A
JA
Mullen
Beth
B
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006126:Group Processes; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000523:psychology; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012803:Sick Role