INTRODUCTION: We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials of combined strength and intermittent aerobic training, intermittent aerobic training only and continuous exercise training in heart failure patients. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted of Medline (Ovid) (1950 to September 2011), Embase.com (1974 to September 2011), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and CINAHL (1981 to September 19 2011). The search strategy included a mix of MeSH and free text terms for the key concepts heart failure, exercise training, interval training and intermittent exercise training. RESULTS: The included studies contained an aggregate of 446 patients, 212 completed intermittent exercise training, 66 only continuous exercise training, 59 completed combined intermittent and strength training and 109 sedentary controls. Weighted mean difference (MD) in Peak VO2 was 1.04ml/kg/min and (95% CI) was 0.42 to 1.66 (p = 0.0009) in intermittent versus continuous exercise training respectively. Weighted mean difference in Peak VO2 was -1.10ml/kg/min (95% CI) was -1.83 to 0.37 p = 0.003 for intermittent only versus intermittent and strength (combined) training respectively. In studies reporting VE/VCO2 for intermittent versus control groups, MD was -1.50 ((95% CI -2.64 to -0.37), p = 0.01) and for intermittent versus continuous exercise training MD was -1.35 ((95% CI -2.15 to -0.55), p = 0.001). Change in peak VO2 was positively correlated with weekly exercise energy expenditure for intermittent exercise groups (r = 0.48, p = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Combined strength and intermittent exercise appears superior for peak VO2 changes when compared to intermittent exercise of similar exercise energy expenditure.

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