Resistance Exercise Training Improves Ejection Fraction and Stroke Volume in Stable Heart Failure Patients

Abstract

Several trials now show that regular aerobic exercise training improves or does not deleteriously affect left ventricular (LV) characteristics in patients with heart failure (HF). Presently unknown is the effect of resistance training (without aerobic exercise) on LV characteristics. If safe and effective, strength training could benefit many aspects of living among HF patients, including exercise capacity and the ability to perform activities of daily living with less physiological stress. PURPOSE: This study determined the effect of a structured isotonic strength-training program on ejection fraction, stroke volume, LV end-diastolic volume, and LV end-systolic volume in patients diagnosed with New York Heart Association class II and III HF. MetHoDs: Sixteen patients were randomized into one of two groups, strength training (ST) or usual care (UC). Group ST (10 patients) received 24 strength training exercise sessions (3 X per week, 8 weeks). Group UC (6 patients) followed routine medical care (8 weeks). Group ST followed a structured isotonic strength-training program involving 12 different exercises on circuit weight machines. LV function was assessed at baseline and at 8 weeks by 3D echocardiography. RESULTS: ST group showed a 20% (p< .01) improvement in total strength compared to UC, which remained unchanged. The ST group improved ejection fraction (32% ± 12% vs. 37% ± 10%, p = .037) and stroke volume (46 mL± 14mLvs. 53 mL ± 12 mL, p= .045). Ejection fraction (40% ± 8% vs. 40% ± 10%) and stroke volume (52 mL ± 3 mL vs. 52 mL ± 5 mL) remained unchanged in the UC group. CONCLUSION: A short-duration structured isotonic strength-training program (no aerobic exercise) did not worsen LV function and instead, demonstrated significant improvement in both ejection fraction and stroke volume. Stable heart failure patients show improvement in left ventricular function from strength training.