Background:
While exercise is increasingly embedded in cancer care guidelines, its psychosocial benefits are often anecdotal and under-measured. Patients frequently report improved mood, confidence, sense of self and social connectedness, yet these outcomes are not routinely captured. This study aims to explore the emotional and psychosocial impacts of a private practice-based exercise medicine program through the lens of patient experience.
Methods (Planned):
A qualitative study will be conducted using semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of a minimum of 20 adult patients who have completed at least 8 weeks of exercise medicine treatment at Lift Cancer Care Services in South Australia. Interviews will explore experiences related to emotional wellbeing, self-perception, motivation, mood and peer interaction. Data collection will occur in August 2025 - Sept 2025, with results available for presentation in November 2025. Data will be thematically analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase method.
Impact on clinical practice:
By capturing how exercise affects emotional wellbeing, this study will contribute to a more holistic understanding of the psychosocial impact of exercise medicine and how it can support psycho-oncology outcomes. Findings may inform the integration of exercise into survivorship and psycho-oncology pathways.