A recent study examined the benefits of resistance training (as an adjunct to usual care) on quality of life and fatigue in breast cancer survivors. Subjects in the study were 39 breast cancer survivors, with an average age of 52 years and average time since diagnosis of 12 months. Fatigue and quality of life were measured with standard self-report questionnaires. Subjects were divided into two groups, an exercise and control group (usual activity only). The exercise group received supervised resistance training 3 days per week for 16 weeks. Perceptions of fatigue and quality of life improved significantly in the resistance training group compared to controls. The authors concluded that resistance training significantly improves fatigue and quality of life in breast cancer survivors.
Hagstrom AD et al. Resistance training improves fatigue and quality of life in previously sedentary breast cancer survivors: a randomised controlled trial. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl). 2015 Nov 23. doi: 10.1111/ecc.12422. [Epub ahead of print]
Resistance training (often used interchangeably with “strength training”) is the process of stressing the body (usually with weights, resistance bands, or the bodyweight) to increase a muscle’s size, strength, and/or endurance.
