Background: Improving physical activity and sedentary behaviour are important goals of cardiac rehabilitation (CR). However, in patients with obesity, standard CR is not effective in achieving the recommended physical activity and sedentary behaviour levels, and results achieved in weight loss are unsatisfactory. Purpose: To describe the effectiveness of a new CR program, OPTICARE XL, for patients with obesity on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and weight. Methods: Patients with BMI���30 were randomized to standard CR (n=99) or OPTICARE XL (n=102). Standard CR consists of a 10-week aerobic exercise program, supplemented with cardiovascular lifestyle education. OPTICARE XL is a one-year tailor-made group intervention including aerobic and strength exercise, behavioural coaching and an after-care program. Physical activity and sedentary behaviour were measured with an Actigraph GT3X+ and weight was measured with a calibrated weight scale. Results: Physical activity and sedentary behaviour improved within both groups, however, these improvements were not significantly different between groups. Patients in the OPTICARE XL group showed on average greater weight loss three months after the start of CR (mean change -3.6 kg versus -1.8 kg, respectively, p=0.002). Six months post CR, changes in body weight were equal (mean change -2.5 kg in both groups, p=0.959). Conclusions: OPTICARE XL had added value on the short-term, but this did not sustain on the long-term. We suggest to re-evaluate the after-care phase of the OPTICARE XL program to expand short-term effects. Funding: The Dutch Organization for Health Research and Development (843001792) and Capri Cardiac Rehabilitation.
The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, Vol. 14 No. 3 (2021): Proceedings from the 8th International Society for Physical Activity and Health Congress