Combined resistance and endurance training at a moderate‐to‐high intensity improves physical condition and quality of life in liver transplant patients

Background: Although currently, moderate and high intensity concurrent physical exercise is prescribed in populations with special needs due to its greater effect on physical condition and health-related quality of life (HRQOL), there are no data in the liver transplantation (LT) setting. Aim: To evaluate changes in maximal strength, aerobic capacity, body composition, liver function, and HRQOL in LT patients after a moderate to high intensity combined resistance-endurance training. Material and methods: 6 months after LT, 54 patients were randomized into two groups: intervention group (IG) and control group (CG). 50 patients completed the study with repeat testing at 6 and 12 months after LT. IG completed a six-month exercise training program, consisting of two days per week exercises during 24 weeks in the hospital facilities, while CG followed usual care recommendations. Patients completed a five multijoint exercises circuit with elastic bands involving the major muscle groups. The effects of the concurrent training program on maximal oxygen consumption (VO2peak), overall and regional maximal strength, body composition, liver function, and HRQOL were analyzed. Results: The IG showed a significant improvement (p<0.05) in outcome measurements compared to CG in aerobic capacity, hip extension, elbow flexion and overall maximal strength, and physical functioning and vitality of HRQOL, while no changes were observed in body composition and liver function tests. Adherence to the program was 94%. Conclusion: This is the first study that combines supervised resistance and aerobic training performed at moderate to high intensity in LT recipients results in significant improvements in aerobic capacity, maximal strength, and HRQOL. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.