Aspinall SP; Hill DM; Mackintosh KA; McNarry MA;
Respiratory medicine case reports [Respir Med Case Rep] 2020 Jul 23; Vol. 31, pp. 101173. Date of Electronic Publication: 2020 Jul 23 (Print Publication: 2020).
Although aerobic capacity has been identified as an important predictor of mortality in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) individuals, many remain insufficiently active. As a ‘ lack of time ‘ is a commonly cited barrier to exercise, reduced-exertion high-intensity interval training (REHIT) may provide a truly time-effective method to increase aerobic capacity. Six-weeks of REHIT in a CF individual was assessed by a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and individual perceptions described using a self-report narrative. Peak oxygen uptake ( V˙O 2 peak) increased by 6% whilst pulmonary function remained unchanged. Qualitative data indicated social support and low-time commitment positively influenced adherence with fatigue and lack of enjoyment noted as a significant barriers. REHIT was demonstrated as a viable, manageable option for a CF individual with moderate-severe pulmonary limitation. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy of REHIT in a large representative sample to ascertain whether it represents an alternative treatment strategy.