A Remotely-Delivered, Combined Exercise Training Program for Mental Health in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study

Background: Breast cancer survivors (BCS) may experience poor mental health following chemotherapy treatment. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these symptoms leading to increased levels of anxiety and depression in BCS. Physical activity (PA) can lead to improvements in mental health and quality of life among BCS. Home-based PA interventions may be useful for improving mental health in BCS while adhering to physical distancing guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives: This study will pilot a 12-week, home-based combined exercise (aerobic + resistance training) versus stretching/toning (active control) intervention on mental health outcomes (i.e., depression, anxiety and negative affect) in BCS. It is hypothesized that BCS receiving the combined exercise intervention will experience significant improvements in their mental health compared to the active control group. Methods: The combined exercise group will participate in a live 60-minute instructor-led aerobic and resistance exercise session 3 days per week via videoconferencing (i.e., Zoom). The active control group will participate in a live instructor-led stretching program 3 days per week via videoconferencing (i.e., Zoom). Mental health will be measured through self-reported questionnaires assessing anxiety, depression, and negative affect administered at baseline and post-intervention (i.e., 12 weeks). Semi-structured interviews will be conducted post-intervention to assess their experience with a home-based exercise program. Significance: This study will provide evidence for the feasibility of a home-based exercise intervention that can be used to manage mental health in BCS following chemotherapy treatment.