From Treatment to Movement: Can a Training Diary Help Cancer Survivors Keep the Change?

Authors

KAPOUNKOVÁ Karolína KAPOUNKOVÁ Kateřina BAZALOVÁ Pavlína HRNČIŘÍKOVÁ Iva VYSOKÝ Robert

Year of publication 2025
Type Appeared in Conference without Proceedings
MU Faculty or unit

Faculty of Sports Studies

Citation
Description This abstract presents the rationale and ongoing evaluation of a printed training diary developed within the OnkoFit program, designed to support physical activity adherence and self-regulation in women after breast cancer treatment. Although the benefits of regular physical activity for cancer survivors are well established, including improvements in physical fitness, fatigue, quality of life, and psychological wellbeing, long-term behaviour maintenance remains difficult for many survivors. Challenges such as fluctuating motivation, fear of overexertion, treatment-related fatigue, and difficulties in forming new habits highlight the need for accessible, low-cost tools that support self-monitoring and behaviour change. A targeted literature review identified only a small number of studies addressing the use of paper-based training diaries in oncology populations. These studies differed substantially in structure, duration, and reporting, and provided limited evidence regarding the mechanisms through which such diaries may support behaviour change. Based on these findings, a structured printed training diary was implemented in a 12-week supervised exercise intervention for breast cancer survivors in the OnkoFit program. The diary allows participants to record exercise sessions, perceived exertion, daily activity levels, sleep and fatigue, mood, and other indicators of wellbeing. It also includes space for goal-setting and personal reflections to encourage the use of self-regulatory strategies such as planning, monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment of behaviour. Upon completion of the program, a focus group will be conducted to evaluate the diary’s usability, perceived benefits, barriers, and suggestions for improvement. Particular attention will be given to how the diary may influence motivation, habit formation, and long-term adherence once supervision ends. This project aims to provide new insights into the potential role of a simple, low-cost paper-based training diary in supporting physical activity maintenance among women after breast cancer treatment. By addressing the current gap in evidence on the effectiveness and acceptability of paper diaries and by considering possibilities for future digital adaptations, the study may inform the design of scalable interventions for broader oncology and chronic-disease populations. The findings may thus contribute to international knowledge sharing and support clinicians, researchers, and practitioners in developing practical tools that help cancer survivors maintain physically active lifestyles beyond structured exercise programs.

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