YMCA LIVESTRONG Program Analyzed

Abstract

A regular exercise regimen in cancer survivors during and post treatment improves fatigue as well as other quality of life measurements. To date programs such as the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA are commonly used but improvements in strength and functional abilities are largely unknown. PURPOSE: Thus the purpose of this study was to assess the effects of the LIVESTRONG program on cancer survivors. METHODS: The YMCA LIVESTRONG program contains a well-rounded exercise regime specifically designed for cancer patients, as well as diet counseling and discussion groups with specifically educated personal trainers. Measures of physical well being are taken at the onset and the end of the 12 week program. Pre- and post-program values were compared for chest press, leg press, and distance traveled as well as change in heart rate during the 6-minute walk test with a paired t-test. Correlations between age and change in lower and upper body strength, and 6 min walk test outcomes, as well as between initial strength and change during the program were determined. RESULTS: A total of 94 participants (72 female and 22 male) entered, and 56 completed the program. Upper body strength (chest press) and lower body strength (leg press) increased by 23.5% and 23.6 % respectively, from the beginning to the end of the program. There was a significant 14.8% increase in distance traveled during the 6-minute walk test while the change in heart rate from beginning to the end of the test was not different. Interestingly, there was no correlation between the age of the participants and the strength gained during the program, for either upper or lower body. However, a significant negative correlation between age and the change in distance walked was found (p=0.004). A significant correlation (p=0.009) was found between lower body strength at the start and the change in strength during the program, but this was not the case for upper body strength. CONCLUSION: Results from our analyses demonstrate a beneficial effect of the YMCA LIVESTRONG wellness program on strength and cardiovascular fitness in participants who completed the program. In addition, younger participants may gain more in cardiovascular fitness, but strength gains do not depend upon age. This project was supported by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, UL1TR000117.