Growing evidence for the implementation of continuous exercise after cancer is fundamental for a structured guidance of patients after oncological treatment. The results of a randomized trial with the intervention of a individual training recommendation are presented here. The feasibility and implementation of a prognostic relevant physical activity program early after cancer treatment is not established. With this study, we aimed at evaluating the ability of cancer patients to reach a prognostic relevant activity level. During the trial, 340 patients were recruited. Activity levels before and during rehabilitation were documented, followed by an outpatient observation including a randomization to either a training recommendation (experimental group) or observation (control group) including an activity questionnaire after 3 and 6 months. Results demonstrate a significant increase in exercise levels in patients during rehabilitation as well as for patients who received a specific training recommendation at randomization. We conclude that a structured process of information and exercise guidance during an in-house rehabilitation stay is feasible and useful for cancer survivors to improve their exercise level and cancer prognosis.
Reprinted by permission of Dustri-Verlag Dr Karl Feistle GmbH and Co KG.

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