Fig. 3

Feasability of the training. Training intensity at the Start and the End of the 6 month PR program, expressed as mean (SD). Aerobic training: patients started the Cycling at 60% of the initial maximal workload on the cycle ergometer and the Walking at 75% of their maximal walking speed during the initial 6-min walking test. Based on subjective Borg scale scores, the intensity was progressively increased up to 85% of the maximal workload and up to 110% of the maximal walking speed (Dashed lines, Panel a). Resistance training: patients started the program on a multi-gym device in 3 series of 8 repetitions at 70% of the initial 1-Repetition Maximum (1RM) load for each muscle group (chest press, vertical traction, leg press) and this load was progressively incremented (Panel b)