Aerobic group-training of elderly patients recovering from an acute coronary event has been shown to increase exercise capacity and quality of life. The aim of this randomized, controlled study was to study the effects of a 3 months aerobic group training programme on muscular endurance and recovery in elderly patients after an acute coronary event. Thirty-one patients were randomized to an intervention (n = 17) or to a control group (n = 14). Exercise capacity was assessed at baseline and 3 months thereafter. Muscular endurance and recovery of knee extensor torque were assessed at baseline, after 3 and 6 months by an isokinetic fatigue-test. Exercise capacity increased 19 watts in the training group (p < 0.001) and 6 watts among controls (ns). No significant differences could be demonstrated between the two groups regarding muscular endurance and recovery of torque. However, a significant increase in mean peak torque value in each bout (p = 0.022) and in mean peak torque values of 87 extensions (3x29) per test occasion (p = 0.022) were seen over time in the total material, as well as an indication of improved muscular endurance (p = 0.058) and recovery (p = 0.052). Aerobic group training increases exercise capacity and is associated with an improvement in muscular endurance and recovery in elderly patients recovering from an acute coronary event.

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