Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training to Preserve Muscle Mass and Attenuate Cancer Progression

Creatine is part of the phosphagen system and plays a critical role in energy metabolism. Creatine monohydrate supplementation increases availability of creatine and phosphocreatine in the skeletal muscle. Increased phosphocreatine enables greater buffering of adenosine triphosphate, an organic compound providing energy to cells, enhancing training volume (e.g., an individual can work-out harder and longer).This augmentation in exercise capacity amplifies training adaptations. Additionally, creatine monohydrate supplementation reduces levels of inflammatory markers, which are associated with severe muscle loss.

Placebo supplementation consists of a flavorless, colorless, dextrose powder and will be supplied in concealed, unlabeled packaging.

Home-based, individualized, whole-body RT program, supervised via the telehealth platform within the electronic medical record system. The RT program consists of 12 resistance exercises, focusing on all major muscle groups including upper and lower body, core, and whole-body. Exercises within each participant's individualized RT program progress with a periodization model as recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine. In addition, the cancer exercise trainer will inquire about space availability in the home for completing resistance prior to developing the personalized prescription. This logistical information is key to ensure feasibility of completing the exercises prescribed. Participants will be provided with beginner and advanced sets of elastic resistance bands to enable progression throughout the 52-week study.