Effetti di un programma di allenamento ad intensita moderata delia durata di 12 settimane in soggetti sopra i 60 anni di età affetti da broncopneumopatia crónica ostruttiva

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a moderately-intense adapted physical activity (APA) training program. Methods. The program has lasted for 12 weeks and was carried out on cardiorespiratory parameters, fitness and quality of life in sedentary participants aged over 60 years with mild to moderate (stages I and II according to the GOLD guidelines, 2007) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Results. We recruited 80 subjects: 60 were enrolled in training group (TG) (29 males, 27 females, 4 drop out), 20 in the control group (CG) (12 males, 8 females). The TG improved significantly in forced vital capacity (+3.7%); systolic (-3.8%) and diastolic (-3.6%) blood pressure (DBP) values at rest; during ergometric test DBP (-3%); maximum workload (+21.7%); oxygen saturation (+0.5%); health-related quality of life (St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire overall score -23.2%). CG showed a worsening trend, without statistical significance, of observed parameters. Conclusion. Results suggest that with a 12 week moderately intense APA training program favorable modifications can be obtained in respiratory, cardiovascular parameters and health related quality of life.