Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Interventional Ages 40 and up

Exercise training for patients with atrial fibrillation

Official title: Exercise Training in Patients With Persistent or Permanent Atrial Fibrillation - a Multi-centre Randomized Controlled Trial

Run by Ottawa Heart Institute Research Corporation · NCT03397602 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing whether high-intensity interval training or moderate exercise can help people with atrial fibrillation feel better and improve their quality of life compared to standard care.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages40 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment132 (estimated)
SponsorOttawa Heart Institute Research Corporation
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (London, Ontario and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJanuary 23, 2019
Main results expectedDecember 30, 2027
Study endsDecember 30, 2037
Registry record updatedMarch 11, 2026
Trial IDNCT03397602 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are individuals aged 40 and older with persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation who are rate controlled.

Probably not a fit

Patients currently engaged in routine exercise training more than twice a week or those with severe cardiac conditions 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 project evaluates the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) versus moderate-intensity continuous exercise training (MICE) and standard care on exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation. The study aims to provide evidence supporting the inclusion of exercise in the management of atrial fibrillation, which is often overlooked in standard care. By comparing different exercise modalities, the research seeks to identify effective interventions that can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. The findings could lead to new recommendations for cardiac rehabilitation in this patient population.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve exercise capacity and quality of life for patients with atrial fibrillation.

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions in similar patient populations, suggesting a promising approach.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation;
2. rate controlled with a resting ventricular rate of equal to or less than 100 bpm;
3. able to perform a symptom-limited exercise test;
4. at least 40 years of age (i.e. participants must be 40 years or older);

Exclusion Criteria:

1. currently participating in routine exercise training (more than two times per week);
2. unstable angina;
3. diagnosed severe mitral or aortic stenosis;
4. diagnosed hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy with significant obstruction;
5. pregnant, lactating or planning to become pregnant during the study period;
6. unable to provide written, informed consent, or
7. unwilling or unable to return for follow up at week 12.

Where it's running

  • London Health Sciences Network
    London, Ontario, Canada
    Recruiting
  • University of Ottawa Heart Insititue
    Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Jennifer L Reed, PhD — Ottawa Heart Institute Research Corporation
  • Study coordinator: Jennifer L Reed, PhD
  • Email: jreed@ottawaheart.ca
  • Phone: 613-696-7392

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.