Influence of a High-Intensity Resistance Training Program on Muscular Strength in Coronary Patients

Abstract

Patients enrolled in a traditional phase 3 cardiac rehabilitation often participate in moderate resistance training (RT) in conjunction with their endurance exercise regimen. Within our maintenance rehabilitation program, we developed an advanced RT program to further enhance strength and functional improvements in our patient population. PURPOSE: To assess relative changes in upper-and-lower body muscular strength during participation in our high-intensity RT program. METHODS: Clinically stable coronary patients (mean ± SD age = 61 ± 11.2 years) were required to meet strict program entry guidelines including ejection fraction > 45%. Small training groups (1-4 patients) met 3 days/week for one hour for a minimum of 1 month. Patients were tested for muscular strength on chest and leg press exercise machines using standard repetition maximum (RM) testing. Patients were retested on identical equipment for RM every 2 months during participation in the program. RESULTS: There were no adverse responses to testing or participation during high-intensity RT programs. Twenty patients consented and were tested for muscular strength. Selected baseline and serial testing data are shown in the table below:TableChange in weights lifted represent plates on Cybex training equipment (chest press=9 lb plates; leg press=12 lb plates). CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate improvements in muscular strength as measured by 1 -RM testing in cardiac patients enrolled in an advanced RT program. Significant muscular strength gains can be safely achieved following high-intensity RT programs in selected, clinically stable coronary patients.