A new community -based pickleball program called Project Rally is helping cancer survivors improve their physical and social well -being, according to a recent pilot study led by researchers at the Moffitt cancer center. The program, which is offered in association with the YMCA of the Suncoast, has shown strong results in terms of participation, enjoyment and physical improvements.
Stay active is a key part of cancer survival attention and research. Physical activity can help reduce the negative effects of cancer and their treatments, while empowering survivors to live satisfactory lives. It offers many benefits, such as better health and lung health, an improved physical function, a healthier body composition, reduced stress and a higher quality of life. However, despite the generalized guidelines, many cancer survivors, between 53% and 83%, do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity.
The leadership of the study, published in Health careFrom September 2023 to January 2024 and included 23 participants: 18 cancer survivors and five relatives or friends with no history of cancer. Cancer survivors, mostly women from 47 to 76 years old, had several types of cancer, including breast and hematological cancers. Many had undergone surgeries, chemotherapy and radiotherapy before joining the program. Participants without a history of cancer were all men, with an average age of 58 years.
The study found that the program was attractive and accessible. The recruitment was successful, with 95.5% of cancer survivors and 77.8% of the participants without a history of cancer who expressed interests to join the program. The retention rates were also strong: 85.7% of cancer survivors completed the program, exceeding the 75% objective. In general, 82.1% of the participants remained in the study until the end, with an adhesion rate of 85.2% to attend the recommended sessions.
Participants in Project Rally reported significant increases in physical activity. Cancer survivors, on average, increased their moderate weekly physical activity in more than 80 minutes, including a more strenuous exercise. The program also helped increase social support, and cancer survivors reported more company that involves their physical activity.
In addition to the increase in physical activity, participants also showed improvements in physical strength and resistance. The participants enjoyed the social aspects of the program, which included group activities and the opportunity to learn Pickleball together. Many summoned new friends and increase their physical activity as a key benefits of participation. The participants also appreciated the support and encouragement provided by the YMCA coach.
“This study shows that the Pickleball is not only fun, but it can also be a powerful tool to improve the physical and emotional well -being of cancer survivors,” said Nathan Parker, PH.D., a researcher at the Department of Health Results . and behavior in Moffitt and main author of the study. “The success of Project Rally highlights how community -based programs can provide a significant way for cancer survivors to remain active, build connections and improve their general quality of life. The YMCA has been an outstanding research partner , and we are excited about the potential to expand this program and help more survivors. “
The positive results of the pilot study are only the beginning for the project rally. The design of the program, which uses the pickleball to promote physical aptitude and social connection, has the potential to grow and serve more cancer survivors. Study findings show that these community -based programs can help cancer survivors increase physical activity and improve their general health.
With plans to expand the program to more locations and offer additional sessions, Project Rally aims to reach a broader audience and help more cancer survivors improve their quality of life through physical activity.
This study was financed by a seed subsidy of the Office of Community Scope, Participation and Equity of the Initiative for the Research Research of Organizations of the Community Organization (COEE).