Effects of Intermittent Exercise Training Programs in Patients With Myocardial Infarction

Effects of Intermittent Exercise Training Programs in Patients With Myocardial Infarction

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases constitute 1/3 of all causes of death.

Myocardial infarction (MI) is an irreversible myocardial necrosis due to prolonged ischemia.

Patients with MI are candidates for cardiac rehabilitation (CR). American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines recommend exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation and suggest exercise to add to patients' routine treatment. When the literature on patients with MI is examined, various exercise programs are seen. The aims of present study is investigating and comparing the effectiveness of intermittent exercise training and aerobic exercise training programs in patients with MI.

Cases are divided into two groups as exercise (control) and control group by closed envelope randomization method. All patients are informed about risk factors and risk factor management. All patients are trained 3 days in the first week under the supervision of a physiotherapist to learn individual exercise programs. Exercise programs including warm-up, loading, cooling, and relaxation exercises are shown. The warm-up period is consist of light-paced walking, active movements of several large muscle groups. During the loading period, taking into consideration the heart rate, fatigue and shortness of breath, exercises such as walking, squat, limb movements with weights, stepping on the steps, walking on different floors are shown. Stretching exercises are done during the cooling period. Intermittent loading workouts will consist of 3-minute loads and 1-minute rest intervals. Moderate aerobic exercise is consist of brisk walking to reach 60-85% of the person's maximum heart rate. Participants of the experimental group are contacted every two weeks via communication methods such as e-mail, message and telephone conversation. Exercise diary is given to all patients and is taken from them at the end of the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Having had MI at least 3 months ago
• Stable clinical status for at least two weeks
• Walking independently
• Volunteer for research study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having unstable angina
• Having uncontrolled hypertension
• Having hemodynamic instability
• Participating in any exercise program in the last six months
• Having a major orthopedic or neurological problem that limits functionality