NCT06115486 · Allegheny Singer Research Institute (also known as Allegheny Health Network Research Institute)
EXERT-BCH Exercise Regimen to Improve Muscle Mass After Treatment of Breast Cancer
What this study is about
The purpose of this research study is to evaluate the outcomes of two the usual treatment group exercise regimens to increase muscle mass in women who have been treated with breast cancer.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this research study is to evaluate the outcomes of two standard of care group exercise regimens to increase muscle mass in women who have been treated with breast cancer.
Interventions
OTHER
Control Arm ACSM Guidelines
The control group will follow resistance training guidelines from the American College of Sports Medicine. Eight to ten multi-joint exercises will be performed to stress the major muscle groups.
OTHER
Experimental Arm 6-12-25 repetitions per set
The exercise regimens will employ a mixture of compound exercises utilizing both open and closed kinetic chain movements (CKC), focusing on exercises with the goal of increasing skeletal muscle mass and body composition. The regimen will incorporate 6, then 12, then 25 repetitions in sequence per set per muscle group with minimal amounts of rest between.
Primary outcome measures
Determine changes in muscle and fat mass during and after each exercise regimen
Time frame: The exercise program will last for 8 weeks and continuously monitored by the PI and clinical team.
The experimental group will follow a 6-12-25 program geared at optimizing hypertrophy and metabolism via high volume and increased time under tension.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 20-89 years
- Women with a biopsy proven diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ or invasive carcinoma of the breast
- Women must have undergone treatment for breast cancer, including one or more of the following: surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or hormonal therapy. Women undergoing active chemotherapy are not allowed on study. Immunotherapy or targeted agent usage is allowed.
Exclusion criteria
- Any current treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapy for breast cancer
- Inability to safely engage in group sessions of resistance training as deemed by study PI
- Severe arthritic, joint, cardiovascular, or musculoskeletal condition deemed by PI to be unsafe to engage in resistance training
Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 4, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations