Key result
Resistance training alone boosts peak VO2 by ~3.3 mL/kg/min in coronary artery disease.
Why the study?
Resistance training is recommended in cardiac rehabilitation for CAD, but its independent effects remain uncertain because it is typically combined with aerobic exercise or multicomponent programmes.
Does resistance training alone improve exercise capacity in adults with coronary artery disease?
Comparison
Resistance training alone vs usual care, no structured exercise, aerobic, or combined exercise
Design
Systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors
Loading...
May support resistance training alone when aerobic exercise is limited in CAD; extends evidence but low-certainty data should not yet change practice.
Meta-Analysis (n=1,977)
Does resistance training alone improve exercise capacity in adults with coronary artery disease?
Mean Difference: 3.29 (95% CI 1.86–4.72)
p-value: p=0.003
Resistance training alone may improve peak VO2 and 6-minute walk distance compared with usual care in CAD patients, but evidence is of low certainty and insufficient to replace established aerobic or combined exercise programs.
Gu et al. (2026) conducted a meta-analysis in Coronary artery disease (n=1,977). Resistance training alone vs. Usual care or no structured exercise was evaluated on Peak VO2 (MD 3.29 mL/kg/min, 95% CI 1.86 to 4.72, p=0.003). Resistance training alone improved peak VO2 by a mean difference of 3.29 mL/kg/min compared with usual care or no structured exercise in adults with coronary artery disease.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: