Strength training

In a randomized controlled trial of 32 breast cancer survivors allocated to resistance training (n=16) or HIIT (n=16), a single RT bout significantly increased serum decorin, IL-6, and SPARC by 9-47% from baseline to immediately post-exercise (p < 0.05). IL-6 remained elevated at 30 minutes post-exercise. MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cell growth was significantly reduced by 20% immediately post-exercise and 21% at 30 minutes post-exercise compared to baseline (p < 0.05). OSM levels were uniquely elevated in the RT group at 30 minutes post-intervention, indicating a sustained anti-cancer signaling response specific to resistance training.

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The Cochrane systematic review of 23 RCTs (1372 participants) identified that 13 studies incorporated exercise targets meeting current recommendations, which include resistance exercise at least two days per week. Eight Tier 1 trials that reported 75% or greater adherence to guideline-level exercise prescriptions all included supervised components. The review found exercise interventions improved aerobic tolerance at 8-12 weeks (SMD 0.54, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.70; 604 participants, 10 studies) and at 6 months (SMD 0.56, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.72; 591 participants, 7 studies) versus usual care. Behaviour change techniques most associated with successful adherence were programme goal setting, graded tasks, and instruction on how to perform exercises. Very few serious adverse effects were documented.

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Within the same meta-analysis of 9 high-quality studies (n = 1156 breast cancer survivors), resistance training demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in cancer-related fatigue compared to conventional care (SMD = −0.41, 95% CI −0.76 to −0.05; P = 0.02), with moderate statistical heterogeneity (I² = 64%). Pooled effects were calculated using a random-effects model according to the DerSimonian and Laird method. The authors concluded that supervised exercise, including resistance training, should be implemented in breast cancer rehabilitation settings as a safe and effective intervention for improving fatigue and overall quality of life.

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A randomized controlled trial assigned 67 women with breast cancer to a home-based exercise intervention (n=33) involving strength training 3 times per week and 30 minutes of brisk walking daily, or a control group (n=34) maintaining regular activity. Exercise levels were slightly higher in the intervention group. Physical fitness decreased during chemotherapy (Post1) but significantly improved at 6 months post-chemotherapy (Post2) in both groups. While no significant between-group differences emerged, the structured exercise group safely completed the regimen, demonstrating that home-based strength training during adjuvant chemotherapy is feasible without adverse effects on fatigue or physical function.

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A pilot randomized controlled trial enrolled 26 female breast cancer survivors randomized to MVe Fitness Chair Pilates (n=8), traditional resistance training (n=8), or control with no exercise (n=10). After 8 weeks of exercise, both the Pilates group (p<0.002) and traditional resistance training group (p<0.001) showed significant improvements in muscular endurance assessed via push ups, curl ups, and the Dynamic Muscular Endurance Test Battery for Cancer Patients. No significant differences were found between the two exercise groups (p<0.711), indicating comparable effectiveness. Both exercise groups achieved over 80% adherence rates with positive participant feedback.

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