The use of a new type of heart rate-controlled training system HeartGo for patients with chronic Heart failure on the pedelec.

BackgroundThe study "HI-Herz.BIKE Saar" (August 2017 - September 2019) examined the health benefits and training effect of e-bikes (pedelecs) in patients from ambulatory heart groups with moderate chronic heart failure (CHI). Method10 subjects with NYHA stage II-III and a left ventricular ejection fraction LVEF of <=50% were selected. The presented study is explicitly marked as a pilot study. The new HeartGo(R) system used here for the first time allows heart rate controlled training on a special pedelec via a smartphone app. The groups were accompanied during the training rides by a doctor and a paramedic. No cardiac complications occurred. The training units were increased in duration, distance and target frequency every six months. Frequency behaviour, pedaling and motor load on the pedelec as well as climatic data such as ejection fraction, a biomarker (NT-pro BNP), risk factors, arterial blood pressure and ergometric courses were measured. ResultsThe power tolerance increased by almost 2.5 times, a discrete decrease of the resting heart rate by 3.7% was observed and pedaling power improved accordingly. In the clinical data the ergometric power increased by 44% and the LVEF improved by 29%. The NT-pro BNP value decreased by 27%. Body Mass Index BMI remained constant at 27 and cholesterol levels showed no significant changes. ConclusionsPedaling according to this pilot study with its methodological limitations of low number was safe and accompanied by significant health benefits. The subjects were enthusiastic and satisfied with this form of training. This training form can therefore be recommended to heart group participants under certain medical conditions and can be used in the training process. The results of this pilot study with its methodological weaknesses should be verified in a larger follow-up study.