Maximal Strength Training Compared to Endurance Training for Improving Strength and Walking Efficiency in COPD Patients Aged 50 to 80

What this Trial Is About

This research focuses on patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease COPD who experience exercise intolerance and muscle weakness, leading to fatigue, reduced daily activity, and increased fall risk. The study aims to assess the feasibility and effects of Maximal Strength Training MST compared to standard Endurance Training ET on strength, effort tolerance, fatigue, walking efficiency, breathlessness, and fall risk over six months. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups for an 8-week outpatient rehabilitation program with sessions three times per week. One group will perform MST consisting of four sets of five repetitions on a leg press at 85-90% of their maximum load, focusing on rapid muscle contraction, followed by 40 minutes of cycling ET at a patient-specific intensity. The other group will perform ET alone, cycling for 40 minutes with intensity increasing based on symptoms. Both groups will maintain normal daily activities outside training days. Throughout the study, researchers will measure changes in walking efficiency, leg strength, rate of force development, effort tolerance, fatigue, muscle volume, breathlessness, inflammation markers, balance, quality of life, patient satisfaction, falls, hospitalizations, and mortality at baseline and after 8 weeks, with some measures followed until 8 months. Heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and symptoms will be monitored during sessions to ensure safety and track progress.

Study on Impact of Maximal Strength Training in Patients With COPD