Effects of Combined Resistance and Aerobic Training on the Inflammatory Markers in Male Patients With COPD: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Systemic inflammation has been recognized as an extrapulmonary manifestation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Recent studies have indicated that exercise training can reduce the levels of inflammatory cells and mediators in both healthy individuals and those with heart diseases. However, the impact of combining resistance training (RT) with aerobic training (AT) on inflammatory biomarkers in COPD patients remains unclear. This study aims to analyze the effects of adding RT to AT on inflammatory markers in patients with COPD. Thirty-one patients diagnosed with COPD were randomly assigned to either a combined resistance and aerobic training group (RATG; n = 16) or an aerobic training group (ATG; n = 15). Both groups participated in their respective exercise regimens three times per week for a duration of 3 months. Anthropometric characteristics were recorded, and all patients underwent lung function testing as well as a six-minute walk test. Additionally, levels of IL-6, IL-17, and IL-32 were measured to assess inflammation. The 6-min walking distance, dyspnea levels, and oxygen saturation (SpO2) all showed significant improvement in the intervention group. In both groups, the concentrations of IL-6, IL-17, and IL-32 decreased significantly (p < .05) following the rehabilitation program. Notably, IL-6 levels exhibited a more significant decrease in the intervention group compared to the control group. Both exercise regimens led to reductions in IL-6, IL-17, and IL-32 levels. However, the combined training appears to exert a synergistic effect, potentially offering greater anti-inflammatory and functional benefits in COPD patients.