Author Identifier (ORCID)
Francesco Bettariga: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4977-5494
Robert U. Newton: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0302-6129
Dennis R. Taaffe: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6381-1597
Daniel A. Galvão: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8209-2281
G. Gregory Haff: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0676-7750
Abstract
Exercise has emerged as an effective therapeutic strategy in cancer management. Long-term supervised exercise programs, including resistance training and aerobic training, can improve body composition and physical fitness, modulate circulating factors (e.g., hormones, cytokines), enhance treatment tolerance, and reduce side effects, potentially influencing cancer progression and reducing mortality risk. Despite advancements in exercise oncology, opportunities remain to refine exercise prescription through the integration of advanced methodologies such as periodization and autoregulatory programming strategies. Periodization, a systematic approach to organizing training over time, has demonstrated benefits in general fitness and clinical populations but is underexplored in cancer care. Emerging evidence suggests periodized exercise programs may enhance physical fitness (e.g., muscle strength and cardiorespiratory fitness) while mitigating treatment-related side effects (e.g., fatigue, loss of bone mineral density). Here, we examine the mechanisms underlying the benefits of periodization in exercise oncology and propose an updated framework for its implementation across the cancer continuum (e.g., neo-adjuvant, adjuvant, survivorship). Incorporating parallel or emphasis periodized models tailored to individual needs may optimize outcomes. These models of periodization and the use of autoregulatory programming strategies allow exercise intensity and volume to be modulated in response to patients’ symptoms and fatigue, ensuring safety and adherence, while aligning with the goals established by the periodized training plan. Ultimately, future research should explore complementary strategies such as nutrition and psychological periodization. By adopting a holistic and individualized approach, clinicians can improve the effectiveness of exercise interventions and ultimately enhance the quality of life for patients with cancer.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
12-1-2025
Volume
55
Issue
12
PubMed ID
41102590
Publication Title
Sports Medicine
Publisher
Springer
School
Exercise Medicine Research Institute / School of Medical and Health Sciences
RAS ID
88067
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
First Page
2987
Last Page
2999
Comments
Bettariga, F., Newton, R. U., Bishop, C., Maestroni, L., Borsati, A., Avancini, A., Pilotto, S., Taaffe, D. R., Galvão, D. A., & Haff, G. G. (2025). Periodizing exercise medicine prescription for patients with cancer: A narrative opinion. Sports Medicine, 55, 2987–2999. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-025-02311-5