Development and implementation of new online strategies that increase physical activity behavior in cancer patients

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate effectiveness of different online exercise strategies to increase physical activity levels in cancer patients implemented during the lockdown that may be maintained as usual care after it. Methods Three different strategies were designed and implemented during the lockdown, adapting the exercise oncology service in two ways: based on restrictions of the pandemic situation and the evolution of pandemic information. Results After exercises interventions, cancer patients reported a significant rise of 92% in physical activity levels and a reduction of 52.9% in sitting time. In terms on the weight, there were no significant changes. Conclusions Online programs were an effective strategy to increase physical activity levels in cancer patients during the lockdown, particularly when the partial lockdown was in effect. A higher level of control and longer intervention were more effective in increasing physical activity levels in cancer patients during and after the lockdown.