performed training with elastic tubing for six weeks, twice a week and the load was progressively increased every 15 days.

The evaluation of muscular strength was performed at the start of the intervention protocol and after 6 weeks, using a digital force gauge, brand Force Gauge®, model FG-100kg - United States, and all results were expressed in Newtons (N). The evaluation was performed with the dominant member of each patient, using a steel cord coated with rigid plastic attached to a dynamometer, with one end attached to a fixed bar and the other end to the distal portion of the dominant member of the patient

The evaluation of functional capacity was carried out through the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). The 6MWT followed the criteria established by the American Thoracic Society15. The test was performed in a gym hall at Oeste Paulista University, Presidente Prudente/SP-Brazil, and was repeated twice with an interval of 30 minutes between attempts and the highest value was taken into account, during the test Standardized verbal performance incentives were given every minute. During the 6MWT was measured blood pressure, oximetry, perception subjective of effort, heart and respiratory rate.

The patients underwent a cardiopulmonary test performed by a cardiologist. All tests were performed on a treadmill (Inbrasport ATL 2000). The modified Bruce protocol16 was used and the test performed until voluntary exhaustion. No patient presented alterations in the electrocardiogram that prevented the realization and completion of the test.

Cardiovascular parameters were monitored continuously: heart rate through the Polar S810i, Finland, arterial oxygen saturation using the Mindray PM 50 pulse oximeter, Brazil, and the subjective perception of effort.17 The ventilatory variables were obtained through the VO2000 gas analyzer (Medical Graphics, USA) calibrated before each test according to the manufacturer's instructions. The average air flow was used in all tests and obtained every 10 seconds, Aerograph®, Michigan, USA.