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Using Continuous Data Tracking Technology to Study Exercise Adherence in Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Published on: November 8, 2013
Interval training versus continuous training in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
M Jeffery Mador1, Matthew Krawza, Ahmad Alhajhusian
1Veterans Affairs Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, NY, USA. mador@buffalo.edu
Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention
|March 24, 2009
Summary
Interval training (IT) and continuous training (CT) both improved exercise performance and quality of life in COPD patients. Neither training method showed a significant difference in effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) significantly impacts patients' exercise capacity and quality of life.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation programs often incorporate exercise training to mitigate these effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of interval training (IT) versus continuous steady-pace training (CT) in patients with COPD.
- To assess the impact of both training modalities on exercise performance and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- 21 COPD patients were randomized to IT, and 20 to CT.
- Both groups trained 3 times per week for 8 weeks with equivalent total work.
- Outcome measures included 6-minute walk distance, maximal work capacity, endurance time, and quality of life (fatigue, dyspnea).
Main Results:
- Both IT and CT groups showed significant improvements in all measured variables.
- No statistically significant differences were observed in the degree of improvement between the IT and CT groups for any outcome.
- Improvements included enhanced 6-minute walk distance, maximal work capacity, and endurance exercise time.
Conclusions:
- Interval training is well-tolerated in COPD patients.
- IT and CT yield comparable improvements in exercise performance and quality of life for individuals with COPD.
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