The BODE index is frequently used to assess functional capacity in patients with COPD. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of interval-load training (ILT) to improve the BODE index in comparison to the commonly implemented constant-load training (CLT).

Forty-two patients with COPD [FEV₁: (mean±SEM) 42±3% predicted] were randomly allocated to either ILT (n=21) or CLT (n=21). The training program consisted of cycling exercise 3 days/week for 10 weeks. Patients assigned to ILT exercised at a mean intensity of 126±4% of baseline peak work rate (Wpeak) with 30-s work periods alternated with 30-s rest periods for 45min per day, whereas patients allocated to CLT exercised at a mean intensity of 76±5% of baseline Wpeak for 30min per day. The BODE index and its components: body mass index, FEV₁, MMRC dyspnea score and the 6-min walk test (6-MWT) as well as cycling Wpeak were assessed before and after both exercise training regimes.

Both ILT and CLT significantly (p<0.001) decreased the BODE index (from 4.8±0.5 to 4.0±0.5 units and from 4.4±0.5 to 3.8±0.5 units, respectively). In addition, both ILT and CLT significantly decreased the MMRC dyspnea score by 0.4±0.1 units and increased the 6-MWT (by 52±16 and 44±12m, respectively) as well as cycling Wpeak (by 14±2 and 10±2W, respectively). The magnitude of these changes was not significantly different between ILT and CLT. Consequently, ILT is equally effective to CLT in terms of improving the BODE index in patients with COPD and as such it may constitute an alternative rehabilitative modality in COPD.