Survivors of bone and soft tissue sarcoma often face long-term health problems after their cancer treatment, such as muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and reduced heart and lung fitness. Because of this, many survivors are less physically active than their healthy peers, which can further increase their risk of heart disease and other late effects later in life.
This study, called "Sport ist Herzenssache" ("Sports is a Matter of the Heart"), tests whether a personalized exercise program can help young survivors (aged 15-39) become more physically active. All participants receive a fitness tracker (smartwatch) to monitor their daily activity. Half of the participants are randomly assigned to also receive an individualized home exercise plan, including strength and endurance training, with some sessions guided online by an exercise specialist.
Before and after an 8-week exercise period (with continuous activity tracking for about 13 weeks total), participants complete simple physical tests (such as walking and balance tests), a heart and fitness check-up, and questionnaires about their quality of life and energy levels.
The main goal is to find out whether the personalized exercise plan helps participants become more active in daily life, measured in minutes of moderate-to-intense activity per day. The study also looks at effects on heart health, physical function, and overall well-being.
The results will help determine whether structured exercise support should become a standard part of long-term follow-up care for young sarcoma survivors.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria:
InaElisa.Kirchberg@uk-essen.de
Participants receive a wearable activity tracker (Garmin Venu® Sq 2) and an individualized, partially supervised home-based exercise program over 8 weeks, comprising weekly endurance training (60 min/week) and three weekly aerobic/strength sessions (30 min each), based on individual counseling regarding personal interests, needs, and functional status. Supervised sessions via video conferencing occur in weeks 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7.
Participants receive the same wearable activity tracker (Garmin Venu® Sq 2) for self-monitoring of physical activity, without a structured individualized exercise program. Individual exercise counseling is offered after study completion.
miriam.goette@uk-essen.de+49 201 723 8083
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