Introduction: Physical activity (PA) offers long-term health benefits for cancer survivors if sustained. This study explored cancer survivors’ preferences and barriers related to a physical activity maintenance (PAM) program. Methods: Cancer survivors who completed a cancer-specific community-based exercise program were invited to complete PAM exercise and discussion sessions. They then joined a virtual semi-structured focus group and completed questionnaires assessing PA levels and PAM session acceptability. Qualitative data were transcribed verbatim, coded inductively, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Descriptive statistics summarized quantitative data. Results: Participants ( N = 20) were Mean = 60 ± 13 yr of age, non-Hispanic White (95%), female (95%), and diagnosed with breast (50%), ovarian (20%), or other (30%) cancer. Average time between original program completion and the study was Mean = 26.2 ± 35.7 (1–110) months. Most participants (65%) exercised more/same amount since original program completion, and 35% met PA guidelines. All participants found the PAM exercise sessions helpful, and most (85%) found the discussion sessions helpful. Participants were likely to attend PAM exercise (90%) and discussion (80%) sessions if offered after the original program. Identified themes included: i) Structured sessions and shared experiences among cancer survivors enhanced maintenance program acceptability; ii) Continued accountability and individualized exercise guidance were key factors in helping participants maintain PA after community-based program completion; iii) Psychological, physical, and environmental barriers challenged participants’ ability to sustain PA independently; iv) Participants preferred maintenance exercise sessions that were accessible, structured, and promoted accountability; and v) Participants held diverse preferences for both the content and timing of maintenance discussion sessions. Conclusions: Participants reported high enjoyment, helpfulness, and likelihood of attending maintenance sessions. Accountability, individualized exercise, and shared survivor experience supported post program PA and should guide PAM session design. Future studies should determine which PAM program components are most effective for PAM after a cancer-specific community-based exercise program.
Anderson et al. (Wed,) studied this question.