Overview
This research study is assessing the effect of an exercise program on cancer survivors.
The exercise program is Haymakers for Hope 16-week exercise program
Description
This is a pilot study, it is the first time investigators are examining the effect of this exercise program on cancer survivors physical and emotional functioning. The exercise programs is based on the conditioning program used by boxers.- Haymakers for Hope 16-week exercise program
- The research study procedures include screening for eligibility and study treatment including evaluations and follow up visits.
- Participants will attend the 16-week program of boxing conditioning. It is expected that about 10 people will take part in this research study.
- This 16 week will include supervised exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, balance and cardiopulmonary fitness.
- There will be 4 sessions of 1 hour each week for each of the 10 participants.
- The program will be conducted at gymnasiums contracted with the H4H program and outcomes assessments at Massachusetts General Hospital and the gymnasiums..
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Cancer diagnosis excluding non-melanoma skin cancer
- Age 18 years
- ECOG performance status 1
- Medical clearance by treating clinician
- No known contraindications to moderate intensity exercise such as (but not limited to) brain metastases, serious or non-healing wound, peripheral neuropathy greater than or equal to Grade 3, or myocardial infarction within 1- year.
- Able to complete forms and understand instruction in English
- Willing and able to attend the H4H program for 16 weeks
- Willing and able to complete the baseline and follow-up visits at MGH
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document
Exclusion Criteria:
- Participants who have had chemotherapy or radiotherapy within 4 weeks (6 weeks for nitrosoureas or mitomycin C) prior to entering the study or those who have not recovered from adverse events due to agents administered more than 4 weeks earlier
- Participants who have had surgery within 4 weeks prior to entering the study or those who have not recovered from adverse events due to surgery more than 4 weeks earlier.
- Blastic or lytic bone lesions
- Uncontrolled intercurrent illness including, but not limited to, ongoing or active infection, symptomatic congestive heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, or psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements
- Chest pain brought on by physical activity
- Pregnant women or women intending to become pregnant during the study period
- Presence of dementia or major psychiatric illness that would preclude participation in a group program