Table 1 Monitored randomized studies on endurance training during different stages of illness
Time of intervention | Phase of endurance training | Intervention | Structure of intervention | Results regarding endurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
At an early stage | Anti-cancer treatment in hospital | Bike ergonomics, treadmill training, maybe combined with daily life activities or physical muscle training | Daily activity, duration (per unit) is up to 20 min at start, more an interval training, intensity is moderate, physical activity is 50–75 % of the maximum heart rate, Borg scale is 11–14 | More likely a stabilizing endurance effect |
At an early stage | Anti-cancer treatment in an ambulatory setting | Bike ergonomics, treadmill training, outdoor walking, combined with physical muscle training | Endurance training (two to three times per week), duration (per unit) is 15–30 min at 60–75 % of the maximum heart rate | More of an improvement regarding endurance |
After medical treatment | Bike ergonomics, treadmill training, outdoor walking, combined with physical muscle training | Endurance training equivalent to ambulatory hospital, duration is 30–45 min | Improvement of endurance | |
Patients at an advanced cancer stage | Palliative phase | Armchair fitness device | Moderate physical activity (Borg scale 13–15, up to 80 % of the maximum heart rate) | Effect on endurance still pending |