Physical Assessment

All participants (both at Logan and SIUC-CRL) complete a low-intensity physical assessment initially and then following 12 weeks of participation. If they continue their participation beyond the initial 12 weeks (the Survivors Forever component), and are assigned to a staff member, they are asked to complete assessments every 6 months. In addition to the physical assessment, all participants complete questionnaires that evaluate physical activity level, quality of life, social support, exercise enjoyment and fatigue.

These assessments evaluate a variety of functional tasks (stair climb/descent, carrying objects, etc.), as well as balance.

These variables are used by the staff members to compose the safest and most effective exercise program, but we also use this data for research purposes. Most importantly, the data collected allows the participant to track and evaluate progress in the program.

Participants in the Logan class are also asked to track:

• physical activity level via the daily tabulation of steps. Each participant is given a pedometer (step-counter) at the outset of the program and reports their step totals on a weekly basis.
• energy level before and after each exercise session.
• various aspects of their nutritional habits throughout the program (fiber intake, calcium intake, etc.)

SIU Student Involvement

SIU students Strong Survivors staff members/trainers are required to complete KIN 402 - Exercise Programming for Cancer Survivors and Caregivers (aka: The Strong Survivors Staff Training Class).

A two-credit course offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer (1st 8 weeks in Fall and Spring and during the 8-week summer term).