Effect of different types of aerobic training on peak VO2 and ejection fraction for diastolic heart failure patients; a comparative randomized control trial.

Background: Heart failure is described by a lack of confirmed efficient therapies and exercise intolerance. Engagement in physical activity decreases the possibility of adverse cardiovascular consequences involving heart failure.

The purpose of the study: Determine the effect of different types of aerobic training on peak VO2 and ejection fraction in diastolic heart failure patients.

Subject and methods: The study was designed as a randomized control trail. Forty-eight eligible male patients with diastolic heart failure, aged between 50 and 65 years old, enrolled in this study. They were picked up from Police hospital outpatient clinic and were assigned to 2 equal groups in numbers. The first group (A) received aerobic exercise for the upper limb in the form of arm ergometer exercises, while the second group (B) received aerobic exercise for the lower limb in the form of cycling. Training duration for both groups was 3 sessions/week for 12 weeks. Peak VO2, and ejection fraction of both groups were measured and compared pre- and post-treatment.

Results: There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the ejection fraction between groups post-treatment. However, a significant increase (p < 0.001) was observed in the peak VO2 of group B when compared to group A post-treatment.

Conclusion: There is no effect of different types of aerobic training on ejection fraction in diastolic heart failure patients, but lower limb exercise is more effective than upper limb exercise in improving peak VO2 in diastolic heart failure patients. Therefore, the current study recommended the use of lower limb exercise over upper limb exercise in training diastolic heart failure patients.

Clinical trial registration: The study was registered in ClinicalTrial.gov as a clinical trial ID (NCT05637125).