From Fear to Empowerment: A Qualitative Exploration of Breast Cancer Survivors’ Experiences in a Supervised Exercise Program

Objectives To explore the perceptions and experiences of women with a history of breast cancer regarding physical exercise before and after participating in a supervised, individualized training program. The study aimed to understand the emotional, physical, and contextual factors influencing their participation, as well as the perceived benefits and challenges during survivorship. Methods A descriptive qualitative study with a phenomenological approach was conducted, based on Giorgi’s method. Two focus groups were held: one prior to the intervention (n = 6) and one after its completion (n = 4), including women who had completed primary treatment for breast cancer. Participants engaged in a structured six-week supervised exercise program. Data were analyzed by identifying meaning structures that described the lived experience of physical exercise. Results Prior to the intervention, participants described fear of movement, mistrust toward physical exercise, and lack of information regarding safe practice, which contribted to inactivity. Following the intervention, they reported physical and functional improvements, enhanced emotional well-being, and restored confidence and bodily control. Professional supervision and peer support were identified as key factors in reducing fear, sustaining motivation, and fostering empowerment during recovery. Conclusions Supervised exercise transforms the initial experience of fear and uncertainty toward movement into a safe and therapeutic practice among women with a history of breast cancer. Professional guidance and peer support facilitate adherence, reduce exercise-related fear, and promote empowerment and well-being during survivorship. Implications for Nursing practice: Nurses play a pivotal role in educating survivors about safe exercise, addressing their fears, and promoting evidence-based referrals. Integrating structured and supervised exercise programs into survivorship care may enhance physical recovery, emotional well-being, and long-term adherence. Nursing professionals are strategically positioned to lead, guide, and support these interventions within a person-centered model of care. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06905639, retrospectively registered on 3 December 2025.