Objective: This study assessed the effectiveness and safety of resistance training in prostate cancer patients receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).
Methods: Ten patients in the absence of metastasis undertook a 20-week progressive resistance training (2 times/week) consisting of 12 different upper and lower body exercises using training machines. Body composition, muscle function, physical performance, bone mineral density, serum biochemical data, plasma insulin and blood markers of prostate cancer were assessed at baseline and after training at weeks 10 and 20.
Results: Training significantly increased muscle strength and muscle endurance capacity (p<0.001) and decreased plasma insulin levels without affecting blood markers of prostate cancer.
Conclusion: Results suggest that resistance training is beneficial for prostate cancer patients with ADT to reduce the side effects of ADT and improve the activity of daily living and quality of life.