Exercise Training for Atrial Fibrillation

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byJennifer L Reed, PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Ottawa Heart Institute Research Corporation

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder. The management of atrial fibrillation is of great importance. Despite the presence of exercise intolerance, weight gain, and an associated decline in overall health and well-being in patients living with atrial fibrillation, recommended standard care does not currently include the prescription of exercise to address these significant health issues. Exercise training is a recognized form of treatment of persons with heart disease. An exercise program such as high-intensity interval training when compared to moderate-intensity continuous exercise training may provide a stronger training stimulus for exercise and clinical outcomes; may be more efficient and motivating; and, may help to improve adherence to exercise training in persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation patients. This has been shown in patients with coronary artery disease and heart failure. The primary objectives of this prospective study are to examine the impact of high-intensity interval training compared to moderate-intensity continuous exercise training in adults with persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation on exercise capacity and quality of life.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults over 40 with persistent or permanent atrial fibrillation, a resting heart rate of 110 bpm or less, and able to do an exercise test. They must not be already exercising regularly, have unstable angina, certain heart conditions like obstructive cardiomyopathy or severe valve stenosis, uncontrolled diabetes, and must agree to sign informed consent.

Inclusion Criteria

I am 40 years old or older.

I have ongoing or permanent irregular heartbeat.

You can do a test where you exercise until you feel a symptom.

+2 more

Exclusion Criteria

My diabetes is not well-managed.

I have been diagnosed with severe narrowing of my heart's mitral or aortic valve.

I have been diagnosed with a thickened heart muscle that obstructs blood flow.

+3 more

Participant Groups

The study compares two types of exercise programs for people with atrial fibrillation: high-intensity interval training (short bursts of intense activity) versus moderate-intensity continuous training (steady activity). It aims to see which one better improves exercise capacity and quality of life.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Moderate-intensity continuous exerciseExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Moderate-intensity continuous exercise training

Group II: High-Intensity Interval TrainingExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

High-Intensity Interval Training