Seven months of aerobic intradialytic exercise training can prevent muscle loss in haemodialysis patients: an ultrasonography study.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of 7-month intradialytic exercise training (IDE) on vastus lateralis (VL) muscle architecture, functional capacity and quality of life in stable haemodialysis (HD) patients.

Methods: 44 HD patients were randomly assigned into an Exercise Group (EG = 21), which they received 7 months of IET, at 60% of pre-assessed maximum aerobic power, 3/week) or into a Control Group (CG = 23, no exercise). VL architecture was evaluated with ultrasonography, functional capacity was assessed using a series of functional tests (6 min walking test, 5 repetitions sit-to-stand, sit-to-stand 60 s, handgrip strength), and maximal aerobic power determined with a modified version of the Åstrand test.