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Combined endurance and resistance exercise training improves peak oxygen consumption, quality of life, and six-minute walk test performance in heart failure patients, but does not significantly affect sleep parameters or depression levels.

A meta-analysis of 9 studies found that combined endurance and resistance exercise training significantly improved peak oxygen consumption (MD=4.36, 95% CI: 1.68-7.04, P=0.001), quality of life (MD=-9.32, 95% CI: -16.92 to -1.71, P=0.02), and six-minute walk test performance (MD=53.76, 95% CI: 38.81-68.70, P<0.0001) in heart failure patients. However, no statistically significant effects were observed on sleep parameters or depression levels.

Last updated: Jul 9, 2026•0 RCTs•1 Meta-analyses•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score63/100
Human RCT☆☆☆☆☆
Meta-analysis★★★☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. The effects of combined endurance and resistance exercise training in heart failure: a meta-analysis.

observational

Hu S, Xu Y · Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine (2026)

Participants: N/A
Duration: N/A
Intervention: Combined endurance and resistance exercise training
Outcome: Peak oxygen consumption, quality of life, six-minute walk test performance, sleep parameters, depression levels
Effect Size: MD=4.36 for peak oxygen consumption; MD=-9.32 for quality of life; MD=53.76 for six-minute walk test
Population: Patients with heart failure (HF)

Result:

PubMed: 42415993DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2026.1777036

Mechanism Graph

Exercise training improves cardiovascular efficiency and peripheral oxygen extraction
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Resistance training enhances muscle strength and metabolic function
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Combined training reduces symptoms and improves functional capacity
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Result: Improved clinical outcomes in heart failure patients

Limitations

  • ⚠Only 9 studies met inclusion criteria, limiting generalizability
  • ⚠No significant effects on sleep parameters or depression, suggesting limited psychological benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

Does combined exercise training improve sleep in heart failure patients?▼

No, this meta-analysis found no statistically significant difference between the intervention and control groups regarding sleep parameters.

What is the effect of combined exercise on quality of life in heart failure?▼

The intervention group showed a significant improvement in quality of life, with a mean difference of -9.32 (95% CI: -16.92 to -1.71, P=0.02), indicating better scores.

How many studies were included in this meta-analysis?▼

Nine studies were included after a comprehensive search of databases up to November 2025.

Is combined endurance and resistance training safe for heart failure patients?▼

The abstract does not report adverse events, but the positive outcomes suggest it is beneficial; however, individual patient assessment is recommended.

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References

  1. 1.Hu S, Xu Y. "The effects of combined endurance and resistance exercise training in heart failure: a meta-analysis.." Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 2026. PMID: 42415993 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2026.1777036
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.