Cross-training program for cancer survivors

Does High-Intensity Functional Training Improve Patient Movement and Quality of Life? A Study of CrossFit® in Cancer Survivors

NA · Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute · NCT03750981

This study is testing a 12-week workout program for cancer survivors to see if it can improve their fitness, body shape, and overall quality of life compared to standard guidelines.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorBarbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute (other)
Locations1 site (Detroit, Michigan)
Trial IDNCT03750981 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot intervention introduces a 12-week high-intensity functional training program for cancer survivors, aiming to enhance their functional performance, body composition, and quality of life compared to existing American Cancer Society guidelines. The study will involve 100 participants who will undergo weekly surveys and monthly physical assessments to evaluate the program's effectiveness. Additionally, the study will explore recruitment methods and barriers to participation, as well as participant satisfaction among those who complete the program. The findings will help refine methods for a larger future study.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with invasive cancer and have received clearance from their physician to participate.

Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing treatment for cancer may not benefit from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the quality of life and physical health of cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown positive outcomes in improving quality of life for cancer survivors through physical activity interventions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 18 years or older at time of program recruitment
* Diagnosed with any cancer
* Cleared from their physician to participate in the program (We assume that most patients will have completed treatment, however if a patient is currently under treatment, this should be their oncologist. If the patient is not currently undergoing treatment, this could be primary care physician or oncologist).
* Available transportation to and from the facility on session days

Exclusion Criteria

* Widely metastatic cancers to the brain or bone may be excluded.
* Patients using mobility assistance devices may be excluded. Exclusionary criteria will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and patients with these limitations may be included with approval from Dr. Beebe-Dimmer and the referring physician.

Where this trial is running

Detroit, Michigan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Cancer Survivors

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.