The effectiveness of an indoor intermittent training program for improving lung function, physical capacity, body composition and quality of life in children with asthma

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the effects of a 12-week indoor intermittent training program on lung function, physical capacity, body composition and quality of life in children with asthma. Methods: Participants were randomized in an experimental group (EG, 58 children, age = 11.55 ± 1.01 years) and in a control group (CG, 47 children, age = 11.51 ± 1.42 years). The training program was conducted indoors and consisted of alternating high- and low-intensity stimuli, for three sessions of 60 min/week, for 12 weeks. Physical exercise and sports activities were organized to follow the criteria of the American College of Sports Medicine (1999) and previous interventions’ studies. Results: In EG, there was a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in FEV1, FEV6, 6MWT, handgrip strength, CMJ and flexibility. Reductions in BMI and fat mass as well as an increase in quality of life were all shown. The dyspnea index decreased significantly and there were no episodes of EIA. There is a significant positive correlation (p < 0.01) between the ΔFEV1 with Δhandgrip strength and Δ6MWT and a negative correlation with Δfat mass. Conclusions: An indoor intermittent training program with these characteristics has improved lung function, physical capacity, body composition and quality of life in children with asthma. These training adaptations are particularly relevant for those patients suffering from asthma as a regular physical exercise routine will greatly improve their quality of life.

• Adolescents
• Asthma
• intermittent training
• physical exercise

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge Peroxyl School (Torreperogil), Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios School (Canena), Ramon Mendoza School (Begíjar), Angel Lopez Salazar School (Baeza), San Ginés de la Jara School (Sabiote), Colegio San Vicente Martir School (Mogón), Arturo del Moral High School (Cabra Santo Cristo), Virgen de Cuadros High School (Bedmar and Garcíez), San Ginés de la Jara High School (Sabiote), Santísima Trinidad High School (Baeza) and San Juan de la Cruz High School (Úbeda).