Maximum physical capacity testing in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: Qualitative findings from an exercise program

Background: Over the past few years there has been a growing interest in the field of physical exercise in rehabilitation of cancer patients, leading to requirements for objective maximum physical capacity measurement (maximum oxygen uptake (VO_2max) and one-repetition maximum (1RM)) to determine dose-response levels in different cancer diagnoses. Aim: To explore the patients' experiences of maximum physical capacity testing while concurrently undergoing chemotherapy and participating in a 6-week, 9 h weekly multidimensional exercise program. Design and method: Prospective, exploratory study using semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted prior to and at termination of the program. The study included 100 patients (18-65 years, median 42 years) with or without residual disease and with mixed diagnoses. Results: Following the intervention, cancer patients felt significantly safer in performing maximum physical capacity tests as these motivated them through self-perceived competitiveness and set a standard that served to encourage peak performance. Conclusion: The positive attitudes in this sample towards maximum physical capacity open the possibility of introducing physical testing early in the treatment process. However, the patients were self-referred and thus highly motivated and as such are not necessarily representative of the whole population of cancer patients treated with chemotherapy.