The RECHARGE study is evaluating the effect of a 24 week structured exercise and education program on the physical and emotion health, quality of life, physical activity and fitness levels of family caregivers. Very little research has been done examining the impact of a structured exercise program designed for family caregivers of cancer patients. The purpose of this study is to determine if physical activity is effective in improving caregiver health and well-being.

The REHCARGE study is a randomized control trial testing a structured exercise program for cancer family caregivers. One half of the participants enrolled will receive no exercise program until after twelve weeks have passed (the delayed start group) and the other half of the participants will start the exercise program right away. In addition to regular attendance at exercise classes, participants will also be asked to complete some measurements throughout the study including an initial assessment and one after 12 weeks and 24 weeks of the exercise programs. If participants are a part of the delayed start group, they will receive a fourth fitness assessment. Assessments include an evaluation of physical activity levels, quality of life, depression, sleep, and social support through survey type questionnaires as well as a fitness assessment to measure overall fitness and body composition. Participants will receive an individualized exercise program appropriate for their fitness level as well as 6 education sessions about healthy behaviors throughout the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Currently providing physical care, instrumental or psychological support to an adult patient who has been diagnosed with any type of cancer.
• They must not have any physical health conditions that would restrict their participation in an aerobic and resistance exercise program.
• They must be willing to participate in two exercise classes per week at a gym space at the University of Calgary.
• They must not be planning on moving for the next 12 months
• Not currently meeting the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines (150 minutes of aerobic activity per week and 2 sessions of resistance training per week) for the last three months.
• Be able to speak and read English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Providing care to a child with cancer Participants caring for a child with cancer will be excluded
• Participants with a health condition that limits their participation in a physical activity program will be excluded
• Participants who were previously caring for a cancer patient and that patient has now died (i.e. bereaved caregivers) will be excluded
• Participants meeting the Canadian Physical Activity guidelines for the past three months will be excluded
• Participants who cannot attend the group exercise classes will be excluded