Efficacy of Aerobic versus Strengthening Program on Functional Performance in Patients with Congestive Heart Failure

Background and Purpose: the role of exercise training in the treatment of chronic heart failure remains a paradox, because exercise intolerance is a characteristic finding in patients with this condition. The purpose of this study was to compare the benefit of aerobic versus strengthen training in patients with chronic heart failure. Methods: Forty male patients with congestive heart failure who were receiving standard medical therapy were randomly assigned to an aerobic group (n=20), or to strengthening group (n=20). Pa ents par cipated in a program of three exercise sessions per week for 8 weeks. Measurement of 6-minute walk test and minute ventilation volume were performed before randomiza on, and at week 8. Results: The two groups had similar parameters at baseline. Both 6-minute walk test and minute ventilation volume increased significantly in the two groups, but the aerobic group had significant increase in both 6-minute walk test and minute ventilation volume more than the strengthening group. Conclusion: Two months of aerobic training program resulted in a significant increase in the functional performance measured by the 6-minute walk test and the minute ventilation volume in patients with congestive heart failure more than the strengthening group. Key words: Congestive heart failure, aerobic and strength exercises, functional performance