A Fully Replicable Exercise Program for Individuals with Sleep-Disordered Breathing: Protocol Design and Training Load Monitoring

Abstract

Objectives. The objectives of this study were (i) to design in detail an exercise program for individuals with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) that would be reproducible, and (ii) to present a system for monitoring training load (volume × intensity) within such a program. Methods. A comprehensive exercise program was developed for individuals with SDB, detailing not only the session structure (warm-up, main part—circuit training and brisk walking—and cool-down) but also the specific exercises, training volume (actual exercise time excluding rest), intensity (Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion—RPE), and training load (calculated as time × RPE, in arbitrary units). This detailed program was previously implemented in a RCT (ISRCTN16974764). A comparison was also made between the planned and performed intensity, and training load through a paired t-test. Results. A fully replicable program was presented. No significant difference was found between the planned and performed training load (p = 0.482). When analyzed by week, a significant difference was found only for overestimation in weeks 9–12 (p < 0.001). Conclusions. In general terms, it can be concluded that a detailed exercise program was described for individuals with SDB. The program is reproducible in terms of content, training volume, intensity, and load. Moreover, the RPE proved to be a valid parameter for quantifying intensity, allowing for the integration of all parts of the session, as well as various types of content. The planned and performed programs (as quantified via participants’ RPE) matched appropriately. Therefore, this program can be reproduced and applied to this type of population.