# Rowing through recovery: Psychophysical outcomes of a combined 12-week rowing and exercise program in breast cancer survivors

## TL;DR

A 12-week rowing and exercise program improved physical and psychosocial outcomes in breast cancer survivors and healthy women.

## Contribution

This study demonstrates that combining rowing with strength and flexibility exercises can enhance recovery in breast cancer survivors.

## Key findings

- Both groups showed significant improvements in functional variables after the 12-week program.
- Breast cancer survivors experienced greater reductions in upper limb disability and cancer-related fatigue.
- The intervention improved physical quality of life and was well-tolerated with high attendance and no adverse events.

## Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 12-week multicomponent intervention combining fixed-seat rowing (falucho) with targeted strength and flexibility exercises on physical and psychosocial outcomes in women with and without a history of breast cancer.

A quasi-experimental, parallel-group design was employed. Nineteen breast cancer survivors and nineteen healthy women participated in a structured program consisting of twice-weekly open-water rowing sessions and gym-based conditioning exercises. Functional, psychological, and quality of life variables were assessed at baseline and post-intervention using validated tools (Hand Grip Strength, 30-Seconds Sit to Stand Test, QuickDASH, Piper Fatigue Scale, and WHOQOL-BREF). A multivariate repeated measures model and bootstrapping methods were used for statistical analysis.

Significant improvements over time were observed in all functional variables across both groups. Notably, breast cancer survivors showed greater reductions in upper limb disability (QuickDASH, p = 0.011) and cancer-related fatigue (Piper score, p < 0.001). Positive effects on quality of life were also found, particularly in the physical dimension. Group-based rowing in an outdoor maritime setting may have contributed to improved emotional well-being and social engagement, although psychological, social, and environmental domains showed only time-related effects. Attendance exceeded 80% of planned sessions, with no adverse events reported.

This intervention appears to be a feasible and beneficial strategy to enhance physical function, reduce fatigue, and support psychosocial recovery in breast cancer survivors. The findings suggest that traditional rowing, especially when combined with complementary exercises, may be a valuable addition to oncology rehabilitation programs.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00520-026-10361-2.