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

BackgroundLong-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.Methods39 Swiss patients with CF were randomly divided into strength training (ST, n = 12), endurance training (AT, n = 17) and controls (CONCH, 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.ResultsFEV1 increased significantly in both training groups compared with CONCH (AT:+5.8 ± 0.95, ST:+7.4 ± 2.5, CONCH:− 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.ConclusionsA 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.