High-intensity virtual-reality arm plus FES-leg interval training in individuals with spinal cord injury

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of highintensity arm and FES-leg cycle training in a virtual reality environment on power output, aerobic fitness and blood biochemistry in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Eight individuals with chronic SCI undertook 6 weeks of high-intensity (80-90% HRpeak) interval training using an arm+FES-leg tricycle. As a result of the virtual reality interval training program, subjects increased their peak aerobic fitness by 20% (p<0.05). Their body mass-adjusted VO2 peak also significantly increased from 19.3±3.4 mL·kg-1·min-1 to from 23.2±3.4 mL·kg-1·min-1. Arm+ leg peak power output during "hybrid" exercise was raised from 52.5±10.4 W to 70±12.0 W (P<0.05). Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and oral glucose tolerance results were unchanged after training. © 2013 by Walter de Gruyter.