Preliminary study of the lived experience of exercise for cancer survivors

There is a growing body of evidence indicating the physical and psychosocial health benefits of exercising during cancer rehabilitation. However, physical activity levels of cancer survivors are generally low. This study adopted a qualitative approach to increase understanding of the lived experience of exercise for cancer survivors. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with six female cancer survivors who had taken part in the 2003 Race for Life fundraising event for Cancer Research UK. Following verbatim transcription of interviews, data reduction was carried out using Van Manen's method of thematic content analysis. Assimilation of central themes forms the basis of the final report. The essence of cancer survivors' experience of exercise was determined as 'going forward'-to move on, physically and mentally following treatment, to rebuild social networks, and to restore a positive, confident outlook towards the future. The central theme of 'going forward' was identified in aspects of participants' physical and mental recovery, and their future intentions for exercise. Race for Life represented a positive focus for participants after cancer treatment, and proved to be an appropriate starting point for initiating, or returning to exercise following cancer. The results of the study support the suggestion that advice regarding exercise should be included in rehabilitation care for some cancer patients.