Comparing blood-flow restricted exercise to traditional exercise for COPD patients
Official title: The Acute Cardiorespiratory Response to Blood-flow Restricted Versus Traditional Exercise Training Regimens (CaRe BFR):4 Randomized Crossover Studies
Run by University of Zurich · NCT05163600 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if exercising with blood-flow restriction can help people with COPD improve their strength and breathing better than traditional exercise.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 90 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Zurich Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich, Canton of Zurich) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 20, 2022 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 7, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05163600 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with COPD according to GOLD guidelines.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with acute exacerbations of COPD or those with physical impairments that prevent participation may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the acute cardiorespiratory responses to blood-flow restricted (BFR) exercise compared to traditional exercise regimens in both healthy individuals and those with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Participants will engage in strength training using a Leg Press machine, with specific methodologies designed to enhance muscle strength. The study employs a randomized crossover design to assess differences in exercise responses and blood pressure levels between the two training approaches. The goal is to determine if BFR training offers distinct advantages for individuals with COPD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into more effective exercise regimens for improving the health and quality of life for COPD patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with blood-flow restricted training, suggesting potential benefits for muscle strength and cardiovascular responses.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion and exclusion for the healthy participants are defined by the following criteria. Inclusion criteria: * Age ≥ 18 years * Clinically healthy Exclusion criteria: * Physical or intellectual impairment precluding informed consent or protocol adherence * Non-German speaking (precluding informed consent) * Pain during exercise of any origin * Pregnancy * History of thromboembolic event in the lower extremity * Resting systolic blood pressure \<100 mmHg Inclusion and exclusion for the COPD participants are defined by the following criteria. Inclusion criteria: * Age ≥ 18 years * Diagnosed COPD according to GOLD-guidelines12 Exclusion criteria: * Physical or intellectual impairment precluding informed consent or protocol adherence * Non-German speaking (precluding informed consent) * Acute or recent (within the last 6 weeks) exacerbation of COPD * Pain during exercise of any origin * Pregnancy * History of thromboembolic event in the lower extremity * Resting systolic blood pressure \<100 mmHg
Where it's running
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University Hospital Zürich
Zurich, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Christian Clarenbach, Dr. med — University of Zurich
- Study coordinator: Christan Clarenbach, Dr. med
- Email: Christian.clarenbach@usz.ch
- Phone: 044 255 22 21
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.