EVALUATION OF A SUPERVISED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PROGRAMME FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: FROM TREATMENT TO TRIATHLON

Area of Science:

• Exercise Oncology
• Cancer Rehabilitation
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Physical activity is crucial for cancer survivors post-rehabilitation.
• Existing programs often lack focus on survivors' specific needs.
• The TriaGO! study addresses this gap with tailored endurance training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the TriaGO! 8-month aerobic endurance training program for cancer survivors.
• To assess the program's ability to meet physical needs and provide socio-emotional support.
• To challenge participants towards completing an Olympic-distance triathlon.

Main Methods:

• 12 cancer survivors and 12 'buddies' (friends/family) participated.
• An 8-month supervised program included progressive cycling, swimming, and running sessions.
• Objective physical health parameters (aerobic fitness, body composition) were measured at baseline, 4, and 8 months.

Main Results:

• 22 of 24 participants completed the program and triathlon.
• Significant improvements in physical health were observed in both survivors and buddies.
• Cancer survivors showed notable increases in VO2max and VO2peak, indicating enhanced aerobic fitness.

Conclusions:

• The TriaGO! program successfully introduced supervised endurance training for cancer survivors.
• Objective measures confirmed significant physical reconditioning is possible.
• Supervised programs are recommended for cancer patients post-treatment to aid physical activity integration.