Resistance Exercise Training Improves Heart Function and Physical Fitness in Stable Patients With Heart Failure

PURPOSE: This study determined the effect of a structured isotonic strength training (ST) program on left ventricular (LV) function (ejection fraction, stroke volume, and end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes) and physical fitness (6-minute walk test, upper body strength, lower body strength, and body composition) in patients with New York Heart Association class II and III heart failure. METHODS: Sixteen patients were randomized into 2 groups., ST and Usual care The ST group) 0 0 patients) performed 24 ST exercise sessions (3 per week, 8 weeks), while the usual care (6 patients) group followed routine medical care The structure isotonic ST program involved 12 different exercise,; on circuit Weight machines LV function OD echocardiography) and physical fitness were assessed at baseline and 8 weeks RESULTS: Modest improvements (P < 05) in resting ejection fraction (0 32-0 37) and stroke volume (46 to 53 mL/beal), as well as in muscular strength and 6-minute walk distance, were found after training CONCLUSIONS: A short-term structured isotonic ST program appears to improve selected measures of resting I-V function and fitness in patients with mild congestive heart failure Additional studies utilizing larger numbers of subjects, including women, are needed