EXERT‐BC: A pilot study of an exercise regimen designed to improve functional mobility, body composition, and strength after the treatment for breast cancer

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Resistance training may offer several unique advantages within breast cancer (BC) survivorship care; however, safety concerns have limited the application of high‐intensity compound movements necessary to elicit optimal changes in body composition, strength, and quality of life in this population. The EXERT‐BC trial assesses the safety and feasibility of an evidence‐based, dose‐escalated resistance training regimen among BC survivors, with the goal of improving physical and metabolic function, mobility, muscle mass, and body composition. Methods Participants included women with breast cancer underwent a 3‐month thrice weekly exercise regimen involving dose escalation of high‐intensity compound exercises. Coprimary outcomes included safety and adherence. Pre‐ and post‐regimen assessment included body composition testing, functional mobility and balance, total load (weight × repetitions × sets) across compound exercises, and patient reported quality of life. Pairwise comparison was performed via the paired t test. Results Fourty participants completed a 3‐month exercise regimen, with a median age of 57 years (range, 27–74 years) and 73% having stage 0–2 BC. BC therapies concurrent with exercise included anti‐estrogen therapy (80%), radiotherapy (30%), and non‐hormonal systemic therapy (15%). No adverse events were observed aside from a single case of self‐limited knee pain. Session attendance exceeded a prespecified threshold of 75%, and 98% patients reported ongoing compliance to an exercise regimen following regimen completion. Significant reductions in percent body fat (p < 0.001) and increases in percent muscle mass (p = 0.011) were observed. Significant increases in resting metabolic rate (p = 0.023), bilateral grip strength (p < 0.001), functional movement screen (p < 0.001), bilateral Y‐Balance testing (p < 0.001), and Godin questionnaire scores (p < 0.001) were observed. Conclusion A 3‐month dose‐escalated resistance training regimen comprising high‐intensity compound movements appears safe with a high degree of adherence among breast cancer survivors, resulting in demonstrable improvements in body composition, metabolic parameters, strength increases, and patient‐reported quality of life.

Keywords

• body composition
• breast cancer
• exercise science
• hypertrophy
• resistance training