Exercise and Health Counseling in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

During the intervention phase (hospitalization for HSCT and subsequent 8-week outpatient phase following discharge), the control group will participate in a Health Counseling Program (1 time/week) on aspects related to a healthy lifestyle such as reducing sedentary lifestyle, acquiring healthy nutritional habits, the importance sleep, screen use, and how to address barriers related to clinical status. We will adapt the program to the needs and timing of the patient's treatment, providing the content in one session/week orally (e.g. using presentations) and in writing (e.g. through brochures).

"Same as Control Group + exercise program as described below:~Same as Control Group + exercise program as described below:~Hospital ward (during HSCT); and Hospital Gym or online (patients' home) during the outpatient phase. Frequency: 3-5 days/week. Session duration: 30 to 55-60 minutes Aerobic training (5-25 minutes): bicycling, crank-ergometry, circuit-style exercises, and games. Muscle strength training (10-20 minutes): large muscle group exercises (upper/lower limb + trunk exercises) performed as a circuit using body weight or against resistance (against gravity and with body weight, elastic bands, dumbbells, weighted vests, machines), with a wide range of joint mobility and at submaximal/maximum voluntary speed. Inspiratory muscle training will also be performed (5 min daily, using a specific device that creates resistance against inspiration)."