“MORE THAN JUST A PATIENT” Experiences of High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training in Men with Prostate Cancer and Bone Metastases – A Qualitative Study

Abstract Purpose To explore how men with prostate cancer and bone metastases experienced participating in a supervised high-intensity resistance and impact training (HiRIT) programme, including perceived benefits, challenges, and influence on physical and mental wellbeing. Methods This qualitative study was embedded within a randomised controlled trial investigating the effect of a 32-week supervised HiRIT programme. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with men who had completed or discontinued the programme. Twenty-two consecutive participants were invited to participate, and all accepted, resulting in 22 interviews, which were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Four themes were generated: Resistance Training: A New Way to Gain Physical Strength to Support Daily Life with Cancer , describing visible progress that reached into everyday life; More Than Just a Patient , a shift from being defined by illness towards feeling recognised as a person; Support and Obligation Through a Sense of Community Among Peers , grounded in a shared diagnosis; and Safety Through Professional Supervision , where trust in skilled physiotherapists allowed the men to train without fear of harm. Rather than fearing the demanding training, the men welcomed being challenged, particularly when it was framed as part of their treatment. Conclusion Supervised HiRIT was experienced as acceptable and meaningful, helping the included men feel capable, supported, and connected. These findings underscore the importance of exercise delivery and professional supervision for men with prostate cancer and bone metastases. Trial registration The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06259279) on 24 February 2024.