Impact of Aerobic versus Resistance Training on Sleep Quality and Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Three-Arm Randomized Controlled Study - Report - MDSpire

Impact of Aerobic versus Resistance Training on Sleep Quality and Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Three-Arm Randomized Controlled Study

  • By

  • Alexander Haussmann

  • Martina E. Schmidt

  • Siri Goldschmidt

  • Anouk E. Hiensch

  • Joachim Wiskemann

  • Karen Steindorf

  • January 28, 2026

  • 0 min

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Impact of Aerobic versus Resistance Training on Sleep Quality and Cancer-Related Fatigue

Overview

This study investigates the effects of aerobic and resistance training on sleep quality and cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in breast cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Findings suggest that both exercise modalities may alleviate symptoms of CRF and improve sleep quality during treatment.

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with significant implications for treatment and quality of life. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is increasingly used to shrink tumors before surgery, but it often leads to cancer-related fatigue and sleep disturbances. Addressing these symptoms through exercise interventions during NACT may enhance patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the provided source material.

Key Findings

  • Aerobic training (AT) and resistance training (RT) were both evaluated for their impact on sleep quality and CRF during NACT.
  • Exercise interventions during NACT may provide significant clinical benefits by alleviating symptoms of CRF and improving sleep quality.
  • Previous studies indicate that exercise can improve CRF during adjuvant chemotherapy, but limited evidence exists for its effects during NACT.
  • The study aims to determine if exercise during NACT results in better long-term outcomes compared to post-surgery interventions.
  • Guidelines recommend structured physical activity as a first-line nonpharmacologic approach to manage CRF and sleep disturbances in cancer patients.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should consider incorporating structured exercise programs during neoadjuvant chemotherapy to mitigate cancer-related fatigue and improve sleep quality in breast cancer patients. This approach aligns with current guidelines advocating for exercise as a core component of supportive care.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the potential of exercise interventions during neoadjuvant chemotherapy to enhance patient quality of life by addressing fatigue and sleep disturbances. Further research is warranted to establish optimal exercise protocols and timing.

References

  1. American Society of Clinical Oncology, ASCO Post, 2023 -- Exercise May Boost Quality of Life for Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer
  2. Guy H. Montgomery, PhD, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, ASCO Post, 2014 -- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Plus Hypnosis Controls Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Radiotherapy
  3. ASCO Post, 2023 -- Patients With Advanced Breast Cancer May Gain Multiple Benefits From Exercise as Part of Palliative Care Related Articles
  4. NCCN Guidelines® Insights, Version 2.2025 -- Survivorship
  5. PMC, 2025 -- Effects of aerobic or resistance exercise during neoadjuvant chemotherapy on tumor response and therapy completion in women with breast cancer: The randomized controlled BENEFIT trial
  6. PubMed -- Effects of Exercise on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
  7. The ASCO Post — Patients With Advanced Breast Cancer May Gain Multiple Benefits From Exercise as Part of Palliative Care Related Articles
  8. NCCN Guidelines® Insights - Survivorship, Version 2.2025 | NCCN Continuing Education
  9. Effects of aerobic or resistance exercise during neoadjuvant chemotherapy on tumor response and therapy completion in women with breast cancer: The randomized controlled BENEFIT trial - PMC
  10. Effects of Exercise on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials - PubMed

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