A peer support program for the long-term maintenance of physical activity and health outcomes in breast, prostate and colorectal cancer survivors

Randomised controlled intervention will compare peer support versus no peer support. Prior to randomisation all participants will complete a 4-week training program, supervised by an Accredited Exercise Physiologist or equivalent. This initial program required 3 times per week using a high-intensity interval training protocol of 4x4min intervals at 85-95% HRpeak, with 3 minute active recovery bouts in between. This protocol is a total of 38 minutes in duration. The purpose of this period is to ensure all participants understand the exercise protocol and are able to complete it safely during the maintenance phase. Participants will then be randomised. Participants whom receive peer support will be paired with a peer supporter (a breast, prostate or colorectal cancer survivor) who have undergone training to provide specific support to their peers in the respect of building motivation, enhancing confidence and knowledge of practice and facilitating the enhancement of self-efficacy. This training is provided by Cancer Council Queensland's peer support team, whom have a program targeted at teaching 'how to peer support', specific for cancer patients and survivors. This training will be a 1-day long training. Peer supporters will provide support to their partner 3 times per week for a 12-month period. Peer supporters will be asked to contact their participant at least once per week face-to-face, with additional support provided by either phone, email, text or an additional face-to-face contact. There is no minimum requirements for how detailed these 3 contacts must be; however, peer supporters will keep a log of the date and type of contact given to their participant. Participants will be recruitment from the Brisbane area, with the intervention being run from the University of Queensland and partnered gyms in the wider Brisbane area.