Is there any benefit using low-intensity inspiratory and peripheral muscle training in heart failure? A randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Inspiratory and peripheral muscle training improves muscle strength, exercise tolerance, and quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure (HF). However, studies investigating different workloads for these exercise modalities are still lacking. OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of low and moderate intensities on muscle strength, functional capacity, and quality of life. DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial.METHODS:Thirty-five patients with stable HF (aged >18 years, NYHA II/III, LVEF <40%) were randomized to non-exercise control group (n = 9), low-intensity training group (LIPRT, n = 13, 15% maximal inspiratory workload, and 0.5 kg of peripheral muscle workload) or moderate-intensity training group (MIPRT, n = 13, 30% maximal inspiratory workload and 50% of one maximum repetition of peripheral muscle workload). The outcomes were respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, pulmonary function, exercise tolerance by the 6-minute walk test, symptoms based on the NYHA functional class, and quality of life using the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire...