Improving Adherence to Exercise Interventions during Cancer Treatment

When it comes to cancer treatment, exercise interventions can play a significant role in improving patients' well-being and overall health. However, one of the challenges faced in implementing these interventions successfully is ensuring adherence to the prescribed exercise regimens. A recent study published in BMC Sports Science, Medicine, and Rehabilitation aimed to determine adherence to resistance and endurance training interventions during cancer treatment, identify subgroups with similar adherence characteristics, and examine determinants of these subgroups.

The study, conducted as part of the Phys-Can randomized controlled trial, involved 577 participants starting adjuvant treatment for breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer. The participants were randomized to undergo six months of high or low-to-moderate intensity supervised resistance training and individual home-based endurance training, with or without behavior change support.

To assess adherence, the study calculated the performed exercise volume as a proportion of the prescribed exercise volume, overall and for frequency, intensity, type, and time. Adherence to resistance training was compared to adherence to endurance training, and adherence to different FITT principles (frequency, intensity, type, and time) was analyzed. The researchers also performed cluster analysis to identify subgroups with similar adherence characteristics and examined potential determinants of subgroup membership.

The results of the study revealed a positive curvilinear correlation between adherence to resistance training and endurance training overall. Additionally, adherence to frequency of resistance training was correlated with adherence to endurance training in the high-intensity group. In terms of specific FITT principles, adherence to resistance training intensity and time was high for most participants, while adherence to endurance training varied significantly.

The researchers identified three distinct clusters representing low, mixed, and high adherence to both resistance and endurance training. Several determinants of subgroup membership were identified, including age, behavior change support, cardiorespiratory fitness, fatigue levels, and quality of life. These factors played varying roles in determining adherence levels based on the intensity of the training.

The findings of this study highlight the importance of personalizing exercise interventions and providing additional support for certain subgroups of cancer patients. By understanding the factors that influence adherence, healthcare professionals can design tailored exercise programs that are more likely to be followed consistently.

So, how can Fitness Blueprint help individuals facing cancer treatment to improve adherence to exercise interventions?

1. Personalized Fitness Plans: Fitness Blueprint uses cutting-edge AI technology to analyze individual user data and design highly personalized fitness plans. By considering factors such as age, gender, weight, and specific health conditions like cancer, the AI can create exercise regimens that are optimized for maximum adherence and effectiveness.

2. Behavioral Change Support: For individuals who struggle with adherence to exercise interventions, Fitness Blueprint offers behavior change support. This includes providing guidance, motivation, and strategies to overcome barriers to exercise. By addressing the psychological aspects of adherence, this support can significantly improve long-term commitment to the prescribed exercise regimen.

3. Monitoring and Progress Tracking: Fitness Blueprint incorporates advanced tracking features that allow users to monitor their progress and track their adherence to the exercise plan. This real-time feedback and accountability can be instrumental in increasing motivation and consistency.

4. Personalized Recommendations: Based on the data collected and analyzed by Fitness Blueprint, the AI can provide personalized recommendations for modifying the exercise plan to better suit the individual's needs. This flexibility ensures that the exercise regimen remains engaging and adaptable, reducing the likelihood of boredom or plateaus.

In conclusion, improving adherence to exercise interventions during cancer treatment is crucial for maximizing the benefits of these interventions. The study discussed here sheds light on the correlation between adherence to resistance and endurance training, as well as the determinants of adherence in different subgroups. Through personalized fitness plans, behavior change support, progress tracking, and personalized recommendations, Fitness Blueprint can greatly assist individuals in adhering to their exercise regimens and ultimately enhance their well-being during cancer treatment.

Cite: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2022; 14: 155.

Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9375909/

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