High-intensity resistance training after a COPD exacerbation
Official title: The Effect of the High-intensity Resistance Training in COPD Patients Recovering From Hospital Exacerbation: a Pilot Study
Run by Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri SpA · NCT07302425 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests whether a short program of high-load, low-repetition leg-strength training helps people recovering from a COPD flare rebuild strength and exercise tolerance with less breathlessness than standard endurance exercise.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 64 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri SpA Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lumezzane, Brescia) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 30, 2025 |
| Main results expected | October 2027 |
| Study ends | May 2028 |
| Registry record updated | December 24, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT07302425 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
People with COPD discharged within three weeks after hospitalization for an acute exacerbation who can perform the 6-minute walk test, have no major orthopedic/neurological barriers, and have intact cognition (MMSE ≥ 25) are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with other primary lung diseases, severe cardiac or neurological comorbidities, major mobility limitations, or significant cognitive impairment (MMSE < 25) are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is a randomized comparison of two early rehabilitation approaches started within three weeks after hospital discharge for a COPD exacerbation: maximal strength training (high loads, few repetitions) versus traditional endurance-based training. Participants are adults with COPD who can complete the 6-minute walk test and do not have other major lung, orthopedic, neurological, or cognitive problems. The programs are delivered at a respiratory rehabilitation center and outcomes include tolerability (breathlessness), quadriceps muscle strength, muscle efficiency, and overall exercise tolerance. The trial excludes patients with severe cardiac or neurological comorbidities or other conditions that would prevent safe exercise.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the high-intensity strength approach could help people regain leg strength and exercise capacity faster and with less breathlessness after a COPD exacerbation.
How similar studies have gone: Resistance training improves muscle strength in stable COPD, but applying maximal-load, low-repetition strength programs immediately after exacerbation is relatively novel and not yet well established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * COPD diagnosis according to the GOLD guidelines \[11\] with FEV1/FVC \<70% * Stable clinical condition (pH\>7.30) \[11\] * Hospital discharge within 3 weeks from an event of hospitalization due to an acute exacerbation of COPD. * Absence of significant motor disability, described by the possibility of performing the 6MWT. Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of lung diseases other than COPD * Orthopedic and neurological conditions that prevent the execution of functional tests * Severe neurological and cardiologic comorbidities or other severe diseases compromise exercise tolerance. * Cognitive impairment evaluated by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score as \< 25.
Where it's running
-
ICS Maugeri IRCCS, Respiratory rehabilitation of the Institute of Lumezzane
Lumezzane, Brescia, Italy Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mara Paneroni, PhD, MSc
- Email: mara.paneroni@icsmaugeri.it
- Phone: +0039+030+8253
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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.