Effect of supervised training on FEV1 in cystic fibrosis: a randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Long-term exercise interventions have been shown to improve vital capacity in cystic fibrosis (CF). Yet, no data are available indicating positive effects of long-term exercise training on FEV1.

METHODS

39 Swiss patients with CF were randomly divided into strength training (ST, n=12), endurance training (AT, n=17) and controls (CON(CH), n=10), and also compared with age-matched Swiss (n=35) and German (n=701) CF registry data. A partially supervised training of 3×30 min/week for 6 months took place with measurements at baseline and after 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. Primary outcome was FEV1 at 6 months.

RESULTS

FEV1 increased significantly in both training groups compared with CON(CH) (AT:+5.8±0.95, ST:+7.4±2.5, CON(CH):-11.5±2.7% predicted, p<0.001) and both registry groups at 6 months. At 24 months, changes in favour of the training groups persisted marginally compared with CONCH, but not compared with registry data.

CONCLUSIONS

A partially supervised training over 6 months improved FEV1 but effects were basically gone 18 months off training. Regular long-term training should be promoted as essential part of treatment in CF.