Key result
Combined aerobic and resistance training improves HFrEF fitness and increases walk distance ~48m over aerobic alone.
Why the study?
Heart failure is characterized by low exercise tolerance, functional decline, and reduced quality of life, but the effects of combined aerobic and muscle strength training across the ejection fraction spectrum required assessment.
Does aerobic training combined with muscle strength training improve cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength compared to aerobic training alone in patients with heart failure?
Population
Patients with HF across the spectrum of EF, including HFrEF (n = 466) and HFpEF (n = 60)
Comparison
Combined aerobic and muscle strength training vs aerobic training alone
Design
Systematic review and meta-analysis using random-effects models
Authors
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Supports adding resistance training to aerobic exercise in HFrEF; reinforces RCT evidence for multimodal training superiority.
Does aerobic training combined with muscle strength training improve cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength compared to aerobic training alone in patients with heart failure?
Adding resistance training to aerobic training in patients with HFrEF yields greater improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, 6-minute walk distance, and upper body strength compared to aerobic training alone.
Terada et al. (2026) studied this question. Combined aerobic and resistance training in HFrEF patients increased cardiorespiratory fitness (SMD=0.40) and 6-minute walk distance (MD=48.4m) more than aerobic training alone.
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