Fixed-Seat Rowing versus Sliding-Seat Rowing: Effects on Physical Fitness in Breast Cancer Survivors

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Breast cancer survivors often experience decreased physical fitness and altered body composition.
• Team-based exercise interventions can positively impact quality of life and physical function in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a 24-week team rowing program on physical fitness and anthropometric parameters in female breast cancer survivors.
• To compare the efficacy of fixed-seat rowing (FSR) versus sliding-seat rowing (SSR) modalities.

Main Methods:

• Forty female breast cancer survivors were randomized into FSR or SSR groups.
• Both groups trained twice weekly for 75 minutes per session over 24 weeks.
• Measurements included weight, BMI, circumferences, muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and flexibility.

Main Results:

• Both FSR and SSR groups showed significant reductions in weight, BMI, waist, and hip circumference.
• Muscle strength improved in both lower and upper extremities for both groups.
• The SSR group demonstrated superior improvements in aerobic capacity and flexibility compared to the FSR group.

Conclusions:

• Team rowing is an effective intervention for improving physical fitness and anthropometric parameters in female breast cancer survivors.
• Sliding-seat rowing may offer greater benefits for enhancing aerobic capacity and flexibility compared to fixed-seat rowing in this population.