Development of a Sasang Constitution-Based Aerobic Exercise Program for Cancer Survivors (암 생존자 사상체질별 유산소운동 프로그램 개발)

Sangwoo Park (박상우); Junhee Lee (이준희)

doi:10.7730/JSCM.2025.37.3.60

Development of a Sasang Constitution-Based Aerobic Exercise Program for Cancer Survivors

Journal of Sasang Constitution and Immune Medicine
Abbr : JSCIM
2025, 37(3), pp.61~71
DOI : 10.7730/JSCM.2025.37.3.60
Publisher : The Society of Sasang Constitution and Immune Medicine
Research Area : Medicine and Pharmacy > Korean Medicine
Received : October 28, 2025
Accepted : November 19, 2025
Published : November 28, 2025

Sangwoo Park ¹, Junhee Lee ²

¹경희대학교 한방병원 사상체질과 전문수련의
²경희대학교 한의과대학 사상체질과 교수

Accredited

ABSTRACT

Objectives This study aimed to develop a Sasang constitution-based aerobic exercise program for cancer survivors. The program incorporated constitution-specific physiological and psychological characteristics to support cardiopulmonary function, reduce fatigue, and improve post-treatment quality of life. Methods A literature review identified aerobic exercise components suitable for cancer survivors and physiological features relevant to Sasang constitutional types. Domestic and international research on cancer rehabilitation, aerobic exercise, and Sasang constitutional medicine theory were synthesized to construct an initial model. The draft included core aerobic elements with constitution-specific adaptations related to cardiorespiratory capacity, metabolism, and exercise tolerance. A two-round expert review was conducted with five specialists in Sasang medicine, rehabilitation medicine, oncology care, and exercise physiology. Quantitative evaluation used median scores, convergence, and concordance, and qualitative feedback was applied to refine the program. Results Expert review confirmed validity and feasibility across all domains, with higher agreement in the second round. Based on feedback, intensity cues were standardized using CR10 and HRmax, and wording revised for clarity. The finalized program consists of constitution-specific aerobic protocols, including speed- and intensity-modulated formats reflecting physiological differences among Sasang constitution types. Conclusions This study presents a clinically applicable model for personalized aerobic exercise for cancer survivors by integrating Sasang constitutional medicine principles with modern aerobic training. The program offers a foundation for individualized rehabilitation in Korean medicine, with potential to enhance cardiopulmonary recovery and quality of life after treatment.

KEYWORDS

Cancer Survivor, Sasang Constitution, Aerobic Exercise, Personalized Rehabilitation, Expert Review

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* References for papers published after 2025 are currently being built.

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