Outcomes in Pulmonary Rehabilitation From Resistance and Interval Training

M.E. KAELIN, A.M. SWANK, K.L. BARNARD, K.J. ADAMS, P. BEACH, AND J. NEWMAN Physical Fitness And Quality Of Life Outcomes In A Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Utilizing Symptom Limited Interval Training And Resistance Training. JEPonline. 2001;4(3):30-37. This investigation examined the efficacy of a program utilizing symptom-limited interval training (IT) combined with strength training (ST) on 6-minute walk distances, increases in exercise capacity (METs), and quality of life. Outcome Data for 50 patients enrolled in outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation with a Mean Forced Expiratory Volume in One Second (FEV1) of 39.45±11.51 and an average age of 68.34±6.94 were analyzed using dependent t-tests to compare admit and discharge values (mean±SD). Values collected were 6-minute walk results 931.20 feet±305.00 to 1131.9 feet±226.32 (p < 0.0001), peak exercise tolerance with symptom limited interval training 2.55±0.52 METs to 4.78±1.22 METs (p < 0.0001). Quality of life scores on the Health Status Questionnaire 2.0 increased significantly (p < 0.0001) in the areas of physical function, health role limits, emotional role limits, social function, mental health, and energy levels. There was no significant change in patients’ perception of overall health and body pain. Results suggest that IT combined with ST can be tolerated by individuals with severe COPD and results in significant increases in 6-minute walk results, peak exercise tolerance, and quality of life.