Physical fitness and quality of life outcomes in a pulmonary rehabilitation program utilizing symptom limited interval training and resistance training

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 plus or minus 11.51 and an average age of 68.34 plus or minus 6.94 were analyzed using dependent t-tests to compare admit and discharge values (mean plus or minus SD). Values collected were 6-minute walk results 931.20 feet plus or minus 305.00 to 1131.9 feet plus or minus 226.32 (p < 0.0001), peak exercise tolerance with symptom limited interval training 2.55 plus or minus 0.52 METs to 4.78 plus or minus 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.