NCT05468034 · Indiana University
Exercise in Metastatic Breast Cancer: EMBody
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to study exercise in a novel population with indolent MBC (no progression on current therapy in prior 12 months and not receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to study exercise in a novel population with indolent MBC (no progression on current therapy in prior 12 months and not receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy). The study team hypothesizes that delivering virtual, supervised, progressive intensity aerobic and resistance training exercise for 16 weeks in this population will significantly improve 1) cardiorespiratory fitness, functional status, and sarcopenia (low muscle mass), all established predictors of survival, and 2) patient- reported outcomes.
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 ≥ 18 years
- Diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer
- No progression of disease in the 12 months prior to screening per the treating investigator
- If participant has changed treatments in the prior 12 months for reasons other than progressive disease, they remain eligible
- Participants on no treatment or "no evidence of disease" but still with a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer are eligible
- ECOG performance status of 0-2
- Ability to walk on a treadmill without assistive device.
- Informed consent and authorization of the release of health information must be obtained according to institutional guidelines
- Currently not meeting physical activity guidelines (defined as less than 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week measured by the IPAQ questionnaire administered during screening)
- Participants should have a cellular device compatible with iOS 15 or Android operating system 7.
Exclusion criteria
- Receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy at any point in the prior 12 months.
- Participants receiving endocrine therapy are eligible.
- Participants receiving targeted therapy or antibody therapy are eligible (examples including trastuzumab, pertuzumab, TDM-1, trastuzumab deruxtecan, sacituzumab govetecan, immunotherapy, CDK4/6 inhibitors, olaparib, alpelisib, etc.)
- Any condition precluding supervised exercise participation. A letter from a physician supporting participation can supersede this eligibility criteria.
- NYHA class III or IV congestive heart failure
- Uncontrolled angina
- Myocardial infarction in the prior 12 months
- Orthopedic surgery in the previous 3 months or plans for orthopedic surgery during the study period
- Chronic uncontrolled pulmonary conditions such as uncontrolled asthma (symptoms \> 2 days/week) or dyspnea requiring oxygen
- Symptomatic peripheral vascular disease
- Or any other comorbidity that would interfere with the ability to complete and comply with the protocol in the opinion of the investigator, including psychological illness
- History of fragility fracture
- Active, untreated brain metastases
Where
- New Haven, Connecticut
- Avon, Indiana
- Carmel, Indiana
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Apr 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations