Exercise Training to Atrial Fibrillation (ExAF)

To test the impacts of different exercise training programs to the cardiopulmonary function, muscle metabolism, and body mass composition

Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been a global threat due to its increasing incidence and prevalence, and also its potential complications of embolic stroke and heart failure, and therefore has a great impact on life expectancy and quality of life. AF with preserved ventricular function is associated with exercise intolerance, and the effect of physical training had shown to improve life quality and heart function in the population. However, the optimal physical training modalities and intensities are not well studies. Here we conduct a prospective, randomized, and interventional trial to investigate the effects of different exercise training programs to the burden of AF. We also exploit advanced imaging modalities, including dual x-ray absorptiometry and muscle magnetic resonance, to explore the change of body mass compositions. With this project, we will be able to explore the effects of different physical exercise modalities to the burden of AF and heart function, and also build up a best exercise training program, specific for this population.

Inclusion Criteria: Paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation Daily activity below moderate intensity < 300 minutes or high intensity < 150 minutes per week. Exclusion Criteria: Active infection. Implant cardiac pacemaker. Uncontrolled hypertension. Cardiopulmonary contraindication to exercise training, such as decompensated heart failure, acute pulmonary edema, unstable angina, uncontrolled arrhythmia causing hemodynamic compromise, symptomatic severe aortic stenosis, suspected dissecting aortic aneurysm, severe pulmonary hypertension, acute myocarditis, endocarditis or pericarditis, uncontrolled asthma and SpO2 < 90% at rest on room air. Inability to follow verbal command or to walk on treadmill or use stationary bike.