RESISTANCE training should be included in exercise programmes for patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD), according to a study from the University of Leicester, Leicester, UK. The research showed that including this type of training alongside aerobic exercise led to greater health benefits than aerobic exercise alone.
Significant Increases in Strength
Over a 12-week period, a cohort of non-dialysis CKD patients either underwent supervised aerobic-based exercise (running on a treadmill, rowing, or cycling) for 30 minutes, or a combined programme of aerobic and resistance-based training (leg extension and leg press), three-times a week. The researchers observed significant increases in strength, leg muscle size, and cardiorespiratory fitness in patients who had resistance training included in their exercise regimen compared with those who just trained aerobically (muscle mass: 9% versus 5%; strength: 49% versus 17%, respectively).
A 6-week run in control period was included before the study began, in which no changes to strength, fitness, and muscle were seen, meaning the physical improvements observed following the intervention were due to the exercise programme.
Improved Quality of Life
The findings provide important information about how non-dialysis CKD patients can most efficiently maintain fitness and muscle strength, helping improve their quality of life. “There is limited research on the effects of exercise in CKD patients, and a lack of knowledge on what exercise is most beneficial in this group,” explained Dr Tom Wilkinson, University of Leicester. “Our study shows that both aerobic exercises and strength exercises are important in CKD patients in keeping muscles strong and healthy and can be combined successfully and safely.”
James Coker, Reporter
For the source and further information about the study, click here.
