Breast Cancer Clinical Trial
Responsiveness to Acute Changes in Exercise and Relaxation (RACER) Trial
Summary
The purpose of this acute study is to compare the combined effects of aerobic exercise and relaxation training on fatigue and its related cognitive components, among breast cancer survivors. Participants will complete three sessions over a seven-day period in a laboratory setting.
Full Description
It is hypothesized that the combination of aerobic exercise and relaxation training could have additive effects on fatigue and related cognitive outcomes. Therefore, this study is designed to test the effects of exercise plus relaxation relative to aerobic exercise alone and relaxation training alone, over the course of three sessions within a seven day period. Participants will complete baseline and post-testing before and after the week of training, as well as pre- and post-testing at each session.
Participants will be randomized to one of three conditions:
Aerobic Exercise Only Condition (AERO) Participants randomized to the AERO condition will engage in three separate 20-minute sessions comprised of a 5-minute, resistance-free warm-up, and 15 minutes of moderate aerobic cycling on a stationary bike (50-70% age-predicted heart rate max). Each AERO session will end with a 20-minute quiet rest period.
Relaxation Only Condition (RELAX) Participants in the RELAX condition will complete three separate 20-minute sessions of relaxation training using a commercial neurofeedback device (headset & smartphone app). Each RELAX session will end with a 20-minute quiet rest period.
Aerobic Exercise and Relaxation Training - Intervention Condition (COMBINED) Participants randomized to the COMBINED condition will complete three separate sessions comprised of 20 minutes of AERO exercise followed by 20 minutes of RELAX training.
All participants, regardless of condition will complete brief questionnaires assessing in-the-moment fatigue and affect, before and after each randomly assigned activity session. A larger survey and battery of cognitive tests will be completed at the beginning of the first appointment and at the conclusion of the third appointment.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
18 years and older
previously diagnosed with breast cancer (ductal carcinoma in situ or stages I-IV)
completed at least one cycle of chemotherapy treatment within the last 5 years
must have reliable access to the internet
must report at least one complaint concerning physical function, fatigue, memory, planning, thinking, negative mood, depressive symptoms, or anxiety
must be capable of engaging in sustained stationary cycling at a moderate intensity
Exclusion Criteria:
deaf in both ears
unable to comfortably wear a pair of ear-bud headphones
color-blind or do not have vision of at least 20/40 with the aid of contacts or glasses
history or diagnosis of epilepsy
Check Your Eligibility
Let’s see if you might be eligible for this study.
What is your age and gender ?
There is 1 Location for this study
Urbana Illinois, 61801, United States
How clear is this clinincal trial information?

Please confirm you are a US based health care provider:
Yes, I am a health care Provider No, I am not a health care providerSign Up Now.
Take Control of Your Disease Journey.
Sign up now for expert patient guides, personalized treatment options, and cutting-edge insights that can help you push for the best care plan.