Effects of a personal trainer-led exercise intervention on physical activity, physical function, and quality of life of breast cancer survivors

Purpose Exercise is important to address physical and emotional effects of breast cancer treatment. This study examines effects of a personal trainer led exercise intervention on physical activity levels, physical function and quality of life (QoL) in breast cancer survivors. Methods Women post active breast cancer treatment were recruited from 2015 to 2017, randomized to immediate exercise or wait-list control, and received three personal training sessions for up to 30 weeks. Physical activity and function were assessed by pedometer, and tests of endurance, strength, and flexibility. Self-reported physical activity, physical activity self-efficacy, and QoL were also assessed. Results 60 women were randomized to immediate intervention ( n = 31) or wait-list control ( n = 29). Subjects were aged (mean ± SD) 56 ± 10 years. On the endurance test, the exercise group significantly improved (increase of 18 ± 20 steps vs control 9 ± 12 steps) ( p = 0.036). On the strength test, the exercise group significantly improved (increase of 4 ± 3 curls vs control 1 ± 3 curls) ( p = 0.002). After intervention, change (mean ∆ ± SD) in the FACT-ES physical well-being subscale score was 1 ± 2 in the exercise group and − 1 ± 2 in the control group ( p = 0.023). Improvement in Self-efficacy and Physical Activity (SEPA) score was significant with a change (mean ∆ ± SD) of 2 ± 5 for exercise vs 0 ± 5 for control ( p = 0.047). The number of steps/day, back scratch test, weight, and self-reported physical activity did not significantly improve with intervention. Conclusions The intervention yielded significant improvements in endurance and strength but not physical activity or quality of life. Implications for cancer survivors Future efforts to explore feasible ways to support patient’s physical activity efforts need to be undertaken.