Progressive Resistance Training Versus Relaxation for Breast Cancer Patients During Chemotherapy: Biological Mechanisms and Effects on Fatigue and Quality of Life

Progressive Resistance Training vs. Relaxation for Breast Cancer Patients During Chemotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Intervention Trial to Evaluate the Biological Mechanisms and Effects of Resistance Training on Fatigue and Quality of Life

The purpose of this randomized intervention study is to investigate the effects and biological mechanisms of a supervised 12-week progressive resistance training on fatigue and quality of life in breast cancer patients during chemotherapy. To determine the effect of the exercise itself beyond potential psychosocial effects due to attention by trainers or the group support, patients in the control group have a comparable training schedule (i.e. 60 min, twice a week, for 12 weeks) but with relaxation training (Jacobsen method).

Inclusion Criteria:

• breast cancer patient after lumpectomy or mastectomy, stage I-III
• adjuvant chemotherapy
• BMI at least 18

Exclusion Criteria:

• contraindication for exercise
• radiotherapy during intervention period