Objectives: This study evaluates the effects of combining aerobic running and anaerobic Pilates exercises to reduce fatigue improve cardiovascular and muscular fitness, and enhance the quality of life (QoL) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients.
Methods: A total of 19 SLE patients with index SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) scores ≤4 were randomly assigned into an intervention group (n=10), undertaking the combined exercise program, and a control group (n=9), undertaking normal activities of daily living only. The combined exercise program lasted 8 weeks and consisted of three 1-h weekly sessions. In both groups, functional capacity, cardiovascular fitness, muscle endurance capacity and QoL were assessed before and following the programmed activity or ADL only. The data were analyzed by the SPSS software, version 18 at the significance level of 0.05.
Results: The results confirm that this combined exercise program provides significant benefits over activities of daily living concerning pre-test and post-test difference scores for functional capacity (VO2peak 1.86±1.45 vs -0.95±1.43 mL/min/kg, P<0.01). Significant benefits were also observed for the number of sit-ups achieved (11.30±9.91 vs 0.5±1.06, P<0.01), sit and reach improvements (6.92±5.09 vs 0.5±0.92 cm, P<0.05), subjective fatigue (-3.38±5.59 vs 1.75±1.48, P<0.05), and regarding the overall mean of summed QoL subscales scores (10.80±4.90 vs 0.06±1.56).
Discussion: Combining aerobic and anaerobic exercises can mitigate subjective fatigue and significantly improve functional capacity, myocardial metabolism, muscular endurance, flexibility, and QoL in SLE patients.