Eccentric Muscle Training in Cardiac Rehab for Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction
Official title: Eccentric Muscle Training in Cardiac Rehabilitation: Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate Effectiveness and Feasibility in Heart Failure Patients With Reduced Ejection Fraction
Run by University Hospital, Antwerp · NCT07636343 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests eccentric overload and eccentric cycling as part of a cardiac rehabilitation program for people with HFrEF to see if they build more muscle strength and mass than traditional training.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 3 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Antwerp Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edegem) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 20, 2023 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | January 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07636343 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with HFrEF (EF < 40%), exercise intolerance (<85% of predicted VO2 peak), and stable on optimized medical therapy for at least 6 weeks.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals without adequate tolerance to eccentric training or those with contraindications to cardiac rehabilitation may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study compares an eccentric overload training plus eccentric cycling approach with a traditional strength and cardio program in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. It is conducted in a cardiac rehabilitation setting and aims to measure muscle strength, muscle mass, and endurance, alongside VO2 peak and functional ability. The hypothesis is that eccentric training can achieve greater gains with lower metabolic demand, potentially improving overall exercise capacity. Participants must have HFrEF with EF <40%, exercise intolerance, and clinical stability for at least six weeks. Safety and exclusion criteria follow standard cardiac rehabilitation guidelines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients may experience greater gains in muscle strength and mass, with improved functional capacity and VO2 peak.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research suggests benefits from eccentric training in other populations, but results in HFrEF are still being explored.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * HFrEF patients with ejection fraction \<40% * Exercise intolerance (\<85% of predicted VO2 peak) * clinically stable for \> 6 weeks, optimal medical treatment for \> 6 weeks Exclusion Criteria: * Contra indications for cardiac exercise rehabilitation as per consensus guidelines and recommendations * Musculoskeletal disorders that hamper (progression in) strength training * Non-stabilized acute coronary syndrome * Current acute heart failure (decompensation) * Patient having sustained a recent (\<3 months) procedure that could act as a confounder to increase VO2peak (i.e., coronary artery bypass graft surgery, percutaneous coronary intervention, cardiac resynchronization therapy, valve surgery or reparation)
Where it's running
-
UHAntwerp
Edegem, Belgium Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Wendy Hens, PhD
- Email: wendy.hens@uza.be
- Phone: 0032 3 275 73 89
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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.