ABSTRACT: The intervention will be a physical exercise program for colorectal cancer patients during the adjuvant chemotherapy. The exercise program aims on reducing the side effects of the treatment and improving patients’ quality of life. In addition, the investigators try to improve endurance and resistance training level, in order to achieve greater physical functionality, survival and general well-being. For this, the investigators will carry out an exercise program based mainly on muscular strength and cardiorespiratory condition. It will last 6 months, with a frequency of 3 days per week, including sessions of 60 minutes. Sessions will consist of three parts: warm-up, main part (endurance and resistance training), and cool down. An individualized and supervised progression of training will take place. The intensity levels will always be adjusted to the initial levels of the participants, always considering their preferences and comfort.
Participants’ preferences and exercise history will be considered through an initial interview. Motivational strategies based on self-determination theory will be applied, since it is one of the most used theories in the field of physical exercise. This theory proposes that all people need to feel competent, autonomous and socially related. If these three needs are satisfied, participants will develop more positive (autonomous) forms of motivation, which are related to better consequences such as vitality, enjoyment, quality of life and adherence to physical activity. In addition, motivational strategies will be applied for families and healthcare professionals.
Before starting the program and at the end of it, each eligible patient will be evaluated through:
* Physical activity: strength test of lower and upper limbs, agility test, stress test for cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity levels, physical condition and body composition.
* Psychological factors: autonomy support, basic psychological need satisfaction, motivation, quality of life, perceived barriers, depression, anxiety, hope, quality of life.
* Clinical parameters: survival rate, side effects, biological factors, treatment delays and planned treatment completion.
