Physical training program for people at risk of cardiovascular disorders in the primary care setting: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background and ObjectiveThe impact of a physical training program on moderate–vigorous physical activity is still poorly known in primary cardiovascular prevention. Our objective was to determine the efficacy of a physical training program to promote moderate–vigorous physical activity and exercise in individuals at risk of suffering a cardiovascular event. Patients and methodsRandomized, parallel group controlled trial performed from October 2014 to July 2016. Sedentary patients at risk of suffering a cardiovascular event were randomized to the control group (CG) (72) or the intervention group (IG) (75). Intervention consisted of a 2-month physical training program. The main outcome was the proportion of patients achieving a “relevant response to Physical Activity” (increase≥240METs-min/week in moderate–vigorous Physical Activity using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)). Secondary outcomes included the proportion of patients performing an “adequate amount of exercise” (≥360METs-min/week in moderate–vigorous exercise using the IPAQ). ResultsOf the 147 patients randomized, 132 (90%) completed the follow-up. Adherence to exercise performance was 91% and no adverse effects were recorded. The proportion of patients in the IG versus CG achieving the main outcome was 34.9% vs 11.6%; OR [95%CI]: 4.2 [1.7–10.4]. Furthermore, more patients in the IG performed an adequate amount of exercise (33.3% vs. 11.6%; OR: 4.1 [1.6–10.5]). ConclusionA short-duration physical training program performed in the primary care setting is efficacious and safe in promoting moderate–vigorous physical activity and exercise in the short-term, in a population at risk of suffering a cardiovascular event.Trial Registration: “Training Programme in Physical Activity”. NCT03717363. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov.