Improved physical fitness of cancer survivors: a randomised controlled trial comparing physical training with physical and cognitive-behavioural training.
We compared the effect of a group-based 12-week supervised exercise programme, i.e. aerobic and resistance exercise, and group sports, with that of the same programme combined with cognitive-behavioural training on physical fitness and activity of cancer survivors. One hundred and forty seven cancer survivors (all cancer types, medical treatment >or=3 months ago)were randomly assigned to physical training (PT, n=71) or PT plus cognitive-behavioural training (PT+CBT, n=76). Maximal aerobic capacity, muscle strength and physical activity were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Analyses using multilevel linear mixed-effects models showed that cancer survivors' physical fitness increased significantly in PT and PT+CBT from baseline to post-intervention. Changes did not differ between PT and PT+CBT. Physical fitness of cancer survivors was improved following an intensive physical training programme. Adding a structured cognitive-behavioural intervention did not enhance the effect.
May
Anne M
AM
University Medical Centre Utrecht, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht, The Netherlands. a.m.may@umcutrecht.nl
Van Weert
Ellen
E
Korstjens
Irene
I
Hoekstra-Weebers
Josette E H M
JE
Van Der Schans
Cees P
CP
Zonderland
Maria L
ML
Mesters
Ilse
I
Van Den Borne
Bart
B
Ros
Wynan D J G
WD
D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D015444:Exercise; D005080:Exercise Test; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D017079:Exercise Tolerance; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D053580:Muscle Strength; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D010809:Physical Fitness; D017741:Survivors