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Effects of a resistance training on pulmonary function and performance measurements in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Wright P, Heck H, Langenkamp H
European Journal of Sport Science 2003;3(3):1-10
clinical trial
3/10 [Eligibility criteria: No; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: No; Baseline comparability: Yes; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: No; Adequate follow-up: No; Intention-to-treat analysis: No; Between-group comparisons: Yes; Point estimates and variability: No. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

BACKGROUND: Exercise therapy with its manifold effects should be part of a modern and multi-modular treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In literature, mainly endurance training is recommended. Because of the specific symptoms (eg, muscle atrophy, dyspnea, low testosterone levels) and the de-conditioning of these patients, resistance training might meet the demands of a COPD-exercise-therapy rather than endurance training. The aim of this research project was to evaluate the efficiency of strength training on various COPD-relevant parameters. METHODS: Twenty-eight patients with moderate to severe COPD (12 male, 16 female) were randomized and divided into a treatment and a control group. The patients in the treatment group underwent a hypertrophic maximal strength training for 12 weeks, initially twice, then 3 times a week for 60 to 120 min. RESULTS: The FEV1 performance (forced expiratory volume in 1 s) showed a significant increase (p = 0.01) of 5.3%. Whereas in the daily peak-flow measurement, there was no significant change in both groups, a trend towards improvement of this parameter could be found in the treatment group by 20 L. The performance on the ergo cycle showed a significant improvement (p < 0.001) of the treatment group of 18.7% (21.9 W). The results of the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire also showed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) of the health-related quality of life (HRQL) in the treatment group. A change of the HRQL in the control group was not found. CONCLUSIONS: These data support the hypotheses that a short-term, high-intensity strength training program is suitable to improve pulmonary function and performance measurements of patients with moderate to severe COPD. These changes lead to an improved performance of daily activities and general well-being. The conclusion can be drawn that hypertrophic maximal strength training is preferable for a COPD-specific exercise therapy and offers new treatment perspectives.

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