Mindfulness and Self-compassion Focussed Walking

Effects of Various Types of Physical Activity on Tumor-specific Symptoms of Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy and / or Radiotherapy

This research study is evaluating the effects of two training programs (1. Walking, 2. Mindfulness and Self-compassion focussed Walking) on tumor-specific symptoms of fatigue in women with breast cancer undergoing chemo- and/or radiotherapy.

This randomized research study is evaluating the effects of two training programs (1. Walking, 2. Mindfulness and Self-compassion focussed Walking (MSCW)) on tumor-specific symptoms of fatigue in women with breast cancer undergoing chemo- and/or radiotherapy. The results of both groups are compared with each other and with those of a control group.

The MSCW program combines endurance based physical activity in the form of medically controlled walking, as well as standardized, evidence-based mindfulness exercise elements in a training program.

The participants of both active groups (Walking and MSCW) practice for 12 weeks, once a week for 60 minutes under the guidance of a trainer in a group and 2 additional times (60 minutes each) independently at home.

The purpose of this study is to prevent a sharp decline in quality of life due to fatigue symptoms by participating in the MSCW training program.

A total of 135 participants will be included in the study. All participants are followed for 1 year.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients diagnosed with breast cancer who have started antineoplastic therapy (chemotherapy / radiotherapy).
• Age ≥18 years
• The patient must be able to perform the study intervention (physically and psychologically).
• oral and written consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• distant metastases
• Severe mental and / or additional organic illnesses
• Clinically relevant cardiac arrhythmias or angina pectoris
• Severe pulmonary disease
• inadequate walking ability or gait disturbance (including neurological deficits, endoprosthesis supply that lead to gait insecurity)
• regular meditation practice (several times a week)
• Planned start of meditation, relaxation, MBSR, yoga, Qi Gong courses over the next 24 weeks.
• Participation in other intervention studies on walking or meditation
• Insufficient knowledge of the German language