Eccentric versus conventional cycle training to improve muscle strength in advanced COPD: A randomized clinical trial

To compare eccentric (ECC) and conventional concentric (CON) cycle training on quadriceps muscle strength in advanced COPD. Secondary objective was to assess functional capacity.

A parallel-group, assessor-blind, randomized trial was conducted. Severe COPD patients were randomized to either an ECC (n = 13) or CON (n = 11) cycling program for 30-min, 3 times/week for 10 weeks. ECC group trained at ∼4-fold higher power than the CON group at similar relative heart rate intensity.

Isometric and isokinetic quadriceps peak torque improved after ECC but not CON; between group difference was significant for isometric peak muscle force (p < 0.05). Peak cycling power and endurance time increased in both groups (p < 0.05). Dyspnea at peak cycling power improved only after ECC training (p < 0.05). Sensory intensity ratings of dyspnea and leg fatigue were significantly lower (p < 0.05) during ECC compared with CON at equivalent relative heart rate intensities.

ECC could be an effective alternative and/or adjunct modality to pulmonary rehabilitation in severely ventilatory limited COPD patients.