Making Moves
An online physical activity program with 1:1 exercise physiologist support for childhood cancer survivors.​
​Young people affected by cancer may be at risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity and cardiovascular disease. Engaging in regular exercise plays a crucial role in improving physical and mental health, enhancing quality of life, and reducing the risk of these long-term health challenges.
Despite the benefits of physical activity, research shows that 85% of childhood cancer survivors do not meet physical activity guidelines. Recognising this gap, our team have collaborated with survivors, parents, and healthcare professionals to design a tailored program.
'Making Moves' is an online intervention aimed to educate and engage childhood cancer survivors in physical activity. The online aspect of this program enables families to participate without needing to travel to a hospital or clinic.
What does this study aim to achieve
Making Moves aims to increase childhood cancer survivors’ physical activity self-efficacy. That is, their confidence in their ability to be physically active. We will also investigate the effect of Making Moves on survivors’ physical activity levels, aerobic fitness levels, muscular strength, physical activity enjoyment, symptoms of depression, and quality of life.
Further, our team are currently exploring the context for implementation for Making Moves to be scaled-up and adopted beyond a research setting.
The overall objective of this study is to investigate how effective this program is for survivors and evaluate how we can implement this program in the real world.Â
- ​The primary aim is to improve survivors' physical activity self-efficacy (defined as the confidence to be physically active).
- The secondary aim is to improve survivors' physical activity levels, physical fitness, depressive symptoms, quality of life, and enjoyment of exercise.
What is included in the program?
Making Moves is an 8-week physical activity program designed by young survivors, parents, healthcare professionals, and researchers. It includes:
- 8 educational modules about health and physical activity after cancer
- Up to five 1:1 telehealth sessions with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP). Sessions focus on setting meaningful goals, discussing barriers to physical activity, and focusing on movement that is enjoyable.
- Fitbit activity tracker to track daily movement and use as a motivational device.
- Guided instructional physical activity videos and exercise tips
Whats next?
We have completed participant recruitment and are currently analysing the data. Results from this trial will inform our implementation strategy, ensuring Making Moves engages survivors in physical activity and is feasible in real-world settings.
Contact information
If you have any questions, please contact the Making Moves team.
·¡³¾²¹¾±±ô:Ìýmakingmoves@unsw.edu.au
This research study is led by Dr Lauren Ha. Dr Ha is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow and Accredited Exercise Physiologist.Â
·¡³¾²¹¾±±ô:Ìýlauren.ha@unsw.edu.au
​This study is proudly supported by The Kids' Cancer Project.
