Effects of organized aerobic group training in elderly patients discharged after an acute coronary syndrome. A randomized controlled study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare the physiological effects of an individually adjusted outpatient group training programme to the standardized recommendations of walking in elderly patients (>65 years) discharged after an acute coronary episode. In all, 101 patients, 20 women and 81 men, aged 65-84 (mean 71) years, were randomized either to a supervised outpatient group training programme during three months (n = 50) or to a control group (n = 51). Exercise tolerance increased from 104 watts to 122 watts (p < 0.001) in the training group and from 102 watts to 105 watts (n.s.) in the control group. Self-estimated level of physical activity was higher in the patients in the training group than in the control group (p < 0.001), as was graded well-being (p < 0.05). Organized aerobic group training can easily be performed in elderly patients after acute coronary syndrome, with results of improved exercise tolerance and a higher self graded well-being.