Important predictors of the outcome of physical training in patients with intermittent claudication

Hemodynamic and endocrine variables have been unsuccessful to predict improvement in walking distance in patients with intermittent claudication following structured training programs. In the present study we evaluated the predictive value of a number of hemodynamic and endocrine parameters. In addition we included information on cognitive factors such as stress and the belief in the structured training and motivation to participate. Twenty-five elderly subjects were studied. Significant improvement in overall walking distance was achieved. The most important explanatory variables of relative improvement in walking distance were belief in training, initial walking distance and number of smoke years. The results support the belief that cognitive factors are of major importance in predicting functional effects of structured training programs for patients with intermittent claudication.