Effects of Aerobic Exercise and Resistance Training on Stage I and II Breast Cancer Survivors - A Pilot Study

Oct 15, 2026

Uploaded by Grenda

Study evaluates whether a moderate-to-vigorous exercise program improves physical outcomes in stage I and II breast cancer survivors. Eleven patients aged 40–65 underwent supervised aerobic and resistance training over 8 weeks, with assessments of VO2 max, body mass index, body fat percentage, and bone mineral density. Results show significantly improved aerobic capacity, while body mass index and body fat percentage did not change meaningfully and BMD shifts were not statistically significant. Findings support exercise as well-tolerated for functional recovery.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages6

Reading Time15 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Background

Physical inactivity and functional decline

Bone health and osteoporosis risk

Weight gain and recurrence risk

Research Article Effects of Aerobic Exercise and Resistance Training on Stage I and II Breast Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study Dena Garner and Elizabeth G. Erck ABSTRACT Background: Lack of physical activity has been noted in breast cancer survivors and been attributed to decreased physical function. Purpose: This study assessed the effects of a moderate-to-vigorous physical exercise program on body fat percentage, maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max), body mass index, and bone mineral density (BMD) of breast cancer survivors. Methods: Eleven stage I and II breast cancer patients, 40–65 years old, were recruited to assess VO2 max, BMD, weight, and percentage of body fat before and after an 8-week exercise (aerobic and resistance training) intervention. Results: Supervised exercise significantly improved aerobic capacity (+4.227 ml/kg/min; P=0.004) and increased, though not significantly, bone mass densities of hip (+0.433 SD units; P=0.061) and spine (+0.224 SD units; P=0.350). No significant changes were observed for body mass index (+0.0196 kg/m2; P=0.927) or body fat percentage (-0.737%; P=0.639). Discussion: Understanding how breast cancer survivors tolerate and respond to a moderate-to-vigorous exercise program is an important step in developing programs for this population following recovery. Translation to Health Education Practice: Moderate-to-vigorous physical exercise may be an effective and well-tolerated intervention for improving physical function in breast cancer survivors. BACKGROUND Approximately every 2 minutes a woman in the United States is diagnosed with breast cancer. Last year, the National Cancer Institute estimated that more than 180,000 new cases would be diagnosed, with more than 40,000 women dying from the disease. One common outcome during the treatment of breast cancer is decreased physical function.1-3 For many patients, low physical performance imposes limitations on basic daily activities2 such as the ability to work, meet the needs of one’s family, or exercise. These limitations exacerbate the patient’s debilitation and fatigue.3-4 Regarding exercise in particular, research shows that breast cancer patients typically reduce their exercise levels after diagnosis and generally do not return to their prediagnosis activity levels once in the recovery phase.1 Similarly, Frost and collegues5 found significant differences among four patient groups (newly diagnosed, adjuvant therapy, stable, and recurrent) in the impact of breast cancer on one’s ability to perform physical exercise. Lack of physical functioning also puts breast cancer patients at risk for other illnesses, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. 1,4 Exercise is also tied to another key issue for breast cancer patients and survivors: bone health. Prolonged immobility and fatigue and reduced ability to perform weight-bearing exercise can put survivors at risk of developing osteoporosis.1,6 Decreased bone mineral density (BMD) may also be linked to the anti-estrogen medications (e.g., aromatase inhibitors) used to treat breast cancer.1,6 Chemotherapy can compromise bone health as well—in a pilot study of 30 breast cancer patients ages 42 to 65, 80% experienced osteopenia or osteoporosis within four years of receiving such treatment.6 The study attributed this to early onset of menopause due to chemotherapy, the effects of adjuvant hormonal treatment, and a decrease in physical functioning.6 Indeed, loss of BMD is a significant problem for women receiving breast cancer treatment, causing bone weakness that leads toa higher risk of bone fractures.6 (Note: Published data on the risk of fracture following Dena Garner is an assistant professor in the Department of Health, Exercise, and Sport Science, The Citadel, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston, SC 29409; E-mail: dena.garner@citadel. edu. Elizabeth G. Erck is a coordinator of worksite initiatives in the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Dena Garner and Eli

FAQs

What was the main purpose of this pilot study?

To assess the effects of a moderate-to-vigorous aerobic and resistance exercise program on body fat percentage, VO2 max, body mass index, and bone mineral density in stage I and II breast cancer survivors.

How was the exercise intervention conducted and for how long?

Eleven patients participated in an 8-week supervised program that included aerobic and resistance training, with measurements taken before and after the intervention.

What outcomes improved after the 8-week program?

Aerobic capacity improved significantly. Bone mineral density increased at the hip and spine, but these changes were not statistically significant, and body mass index and body fat percentage showed no significant changes.

Oct 15, 2026

Uploaded by Grenda