Effects of combining functional exercises and exercise training in COPD

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) improves overall functionality for patients with COPD. However, PR9s benefits on Physical Activity in Daily Life (PADL) are contradictory and inconsistent. This study evaluated the short term and sustained effects of the combination of functional exercises with aerobic and resistance training in patients with COPD. <b>Methods:</b> Seventy-six patients with COPD (39 male; age 69±7yrs; FEV₁ 50±17%pred) were randomized to either: 1-resistance and aerobic and functional exercises (FTG), 2-conventional program including resistance and aerobic exercises (CTG) or 3-usual care (UCG) including respiratory physiotherapy. Patients were evaluated before and upon eight weeks of training and 12 weeks after the end of the training regarding PADL (accelerometer), activities of daily living (ADL) limitations (London Chest Activity of Daily Living-LCADL), functional exercise capacity (six-minute walk test-6MWT), and peripheral muscle strength (dynamometer). <b>Results:</b> There was no change in steps/day and time in moderate to vigorous physical activity post-intervention and 12 weeks post-training follow-up in any of the groups, as well as, there were no differences between groups (p&gt;0.05). Only CTG showed a reduction in LCADL total score after the intervention and an increase in the follow-up (20±8; 17±6; 19±8, pre and post-intervention, and 12 weeks post-training, respectively) (p=0.001), without difference between groups (p=0.375). <b>Conclusion:</b> Functional exercise training combined with aerobic/resistance training in COPD failed to improve PADL or reduce ADL limitations. Eight weeks of conventional training improved the limitations in ADL, but effects faded at 12 weeks post-training follow-up.