Strength training improves functional capacity of individuals with chronic heart failure: Randomized clinical trial

Abstract

IntroductionChronic heart failure (CHF) is characterized by dyspnea, exercise intolerance and impaired quality of life. Physical exercise is a key point in the treatment of these outcomes. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of 24 weeks of two different training strategies on functional capacity, muscle strength and quality of life in individuals with CHF. MethodsThe following tests and evaluations were performed before and after 24 weeks of training: exercise test, one-repetition maximum test (1- RM) and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). Subjects were randomized according to the modality they would perform first: aerobic training group (ATG – n=6) or strength training group (STG – n=7). ResultsThe sample consisted of 13 individuals (10 men), aged 55 ± 12 years and a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 38.8 ± 5.3%. There was a significant increase in V'O 2peak only in STG (STG: 26.92 ± 9.81 vs 30.52 ± 8.39 mL.kg -1 .min -1 - p=0.025; ATG: 19.60 ± 7,00 vs 22.42 ± 8.54 mL.kg -1 .min -1 - p=0.119). Both groups showed significant improvements in muscle strength (STG: 45 ± 17 vs 51 ± 20 kg - p=0.001; ATG: 38 ± 19 vs 42 ± 20 kg - p=0.012). There was no significant difference in quality of life (STG: 30 ± 18 vs 24 ± 20 - p=0.109; ATG: 36 ± 16 vs 26 ± 15 - p=0.143). ConclusionThe early implementation of strength training improves functional capacity and muscle strength of individuals with CHF.