Effectiveness of Tele-exercise Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Patients With Cardiometabolic Multimorbidity

Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center

This trial aimed to assess whether assumed increase in physical activity after tele-exercise training can improve cardiorespiratory fitness of patients with cardiometabolic multimorbidity.

A parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted. Eligible patients with cardiometabolic multimorbidity were randomized 1:1 to either experimental group (EG, received a tele-exercise training program) or control group (CG, usual care only). The intervention encompassed tele-exercise training program (30 min/session, 3 sessions/week) and weekly remote monitoring for maintenance of exercise. Physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks. Generalized estimating equations were used to examine the intervention effects via the interaction of time and group.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Confirmed diagnoses of cardiometabolic multimorbidity, defined as the presence of two or more cardiometabolic conditions (i.e., hypertension, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, or gout)
• Aged 18-80 years
• Able to speak and understand Mandarin
• Able to walk without assistance
• Had mobile phones and could easily access the Internet

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not match the diagnosis of cardiometabolic multimorbidity; and a history of arrhythmia, cancer, end-stage renal disease with dialysis, being diagnosed with mental illness, recent stroke within 6 months
• Not able to speak and understand Mandarin
• Not able to walk independently or inability to participate due to comorbid neurological, musculoskeletal conditions that produce moderate-to-severe physical disability
• Did not have mobile phones or could not access the internet at home and whenever necessary