The purpose of this exploratory study is to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of an exercise persistence intervention for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) following pulmonary rehabilitation (PR).

Exercise, a cornerstone of PR, is effective in improving dyspnea, functioning, and health related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with COPD. However, these improvements gradually dissipate following program completion. There are currently few successful interventions that support patients' persistence with community-based exercise after PR and that have closely monitored the potentially negative impact that COPD exacerbations have on exercise behaviors. Emerging technologies such as wirelessly enabled personal digital assistants (PDA) may provide an innovative means to support exercise persistence through real-time collaborative monitoring of exercise and signs and symptoms of COPD exacerbations and reinforcement to enhance exercise self-efficacy. Patient graduates of two PR programs who have COPD (n=20) will first undergo a 2-week run-in prior to being randomized to either the MOBILE (Mobilizing Support for Long-term Exercise) intervention or attention control for 6 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Moderate to severe COPD (FEV1/FVC <70% and FEV1%<80%)
• Ability to speak, read and write English
• Age 40 or older
• Willingness to complete a 6 month program

Exclusion Criteria:

• Illnesses such as bronchiectasis, active malignancies or other end stage diseases
• Plans to continue in a maintenance program after rehabilitation.