Effect of an exercise program on function, activity and participation of young people with cystic fibrosis

Participants allocated to the intervention group receive usual inpatient treatment, including medical, nutritional and physiotherapy. In place of the usual physiotherapy exercise program, participants in this group receive a targeted exercise program, addressing components of strength, flexibility and aerobic and anaerobic activities. This supervised program is performed five days per week (for up to 60 minutes), and is encouraged to be continued over the weekend (supervised by parent / guardian). Participants receive an exercise pack which includes items to encourage physical activity. A log is used for documentation of activities and relevant measures (for example: heart rate, breathlessness score, shuttle level attained or number of jumps performed in 30 seconds etc). A pedometer is provided to count the number of steps taken during the session and between sessions. Prior to discharge from hospital, advice is given regarding continuation of the program at home, aiming for 30 minutes on three days per week. This program is continued for 12 weeks following discharge. Strategies to encourage adherence to the home program include contact via telephone and email.