Effects of aerobic or aerobic and resistance training on cardiorespiratory and skeletal muscle function in heart failure: a randomized controlled pilot trial

Abstract

Objective: To examined the effects of different training modalities on exercise capacity (Vo_2peak), systolic function, muscular strength and endurance and quality of life in heart failure patients.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Cardiac rehabilitation centre in Canada.

Subjects: Forty-two individuals with heart failure (62 ± 12 years; New York Heart Association (NYHA) classes I—III).

Interventions: Aerobic training (n = 14), combined aerobic and resistance training (n = 15) or usual care (n = 13) three times per week for 12 weeks.

Main measures: (1) Vo_2peak measured by symptom-limited graded exercise test on cycle ergometer; (2) systolic function assessed by two-dimensional echocardiography; (3) muscular strength and muscular endurance measured by one-repetition maximum procedure; and (4) quality of life assessed by questionnaires.

Results: In the intention-to-treat analysis, neither aerobic nor combined aerobic and resistance training significantly improved Vo_2peak, systolic function or quality of life compared with usual care. However, combined aerobic and resistance training significantly improved upper extremity strength (40.7 (14.0)—48.5 (16.0) kg, P<0.05) and muscular endurance (5.7 (2.7)—11.6 (7.6) reps, P<0.05) compared with aerobic training or usual care. In compliant participants (exercise adherence 80%), Vo_2peak increased in the aerobic group (16.9 (6.0)—19.0 (6.8), P= 0.026) and tended to increase in the combined training group (15.9 (5.0)—17.6 (5.6), P= 0.058) compared with usual care. Quality of life was improved in the aerobic group only.

Conclusions: Both aerobic and combined aerobic and resistance training are effective interventions to improve Vo_2peak in compliant heart failure patients. Combined training may be more effective in improving muscle strength and endurance.

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