Resistance Training to Improve Fatigue and Physical Function in Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Survivors

Resistance training (RT) will include 15 repetitions for two sets and to exhaustion on the third set for seven major muscle groups: the leg and chest press, knee extension, leg curl, row, abdominal crunch, and bicep curl. Resistance is gradually increased to account for strength gains when subjects are able to complete 20 repetitions on the third set.

Cognitively-based compassion training control (CBCT) classes will be performed in a group setting for 1.5-2 hours per week, and consist of didactics, class discussion, and guided meditation practice. Each class will begin with a period of meditation to calm and focus the mind, followed by analytical practices designed to challenge unexamined assumptions regarding feelings, and actions toward others with a focus on generating spontaneous empathy and compassion for themselves and others.