Abstract
This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of an 8-week full-body resistance and aerobic exercise program for 27 survivors of breast cancer (age, 57.7 ± 7.2 years; years posttreatment, 0.8–21.0) with prior upper-body conditioning. Physical fitness and quality-of-life (QOL) measures were obtained before and after the training period. Lymphedema, evaluated via arm volume measurement at baseline, was self-monitored throughout the trial. Sum of skinfolds, waist girth, and hip girth were significantly reduced posttraining (p < 0.01), although body weight did not change. Significant improvements (p < 0.01) were observed in upper-body strength (35.6 ± 16.4%) and endurance (167.4 ± 55.4%), lower-body strength (50.7 ± 32.3%) and endurance (273.1 ± 120.7%), O2peak, trunk flexibility, and flexibility of the ipsilateral (surgical) and contralateral shoulder joint. Psychological QOL and overall QOL, evaluated via the World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment Scale–Abbreviated Version. Inventory also improved significantly (p < 0.01). No incidents of lymphedema or injury were reported. These findings suggest that survivors of breast cancer can safely benefit from engaging in a full-body exercise regimen.
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