Introduction

Physical activity (PA) coaching programs can improve PA in patients with COPD, however long-term effects are missing and the added value of intensive coaching vs. limited feedback is unknown.

Aim

To investigate the effectiveness of a 6-month PA tele coaching intervention to improve and maintain PA in COPD patients compared to a sham coaching intervention.

Method

This multicenter RCT randomized patients in an intensive PA tele coaching intervention (IG; with an activity tracker, smartphone application, dynamic step goal, regular feedback and contact with a coach) or a sham PA coaching intervention (SG; with an activity tracker, fixed step goal and limited feedback). Objective PA was measured by the Dynaport Movemonitor and PA experience with C-PPAC tool at baseline and 6 months follow-up. Between group differences were analyzed using mixed model analyses.

Results

150 patients were randomized in the IG (n=77; FEV₁ 56±17%pred, 5441±3166 steps/day) or the SG (n=73; FEV^₁ 57±17%pred, 5716±2921 steps/day). No between group differences were observed for objective or experienced PA at 6 months (fig1). Responder rates (?+1000 steps) were similar for both groups (IG:32%; SG:31%).

Conclusion

Intensive tele coaching had no added value in improving PA compared to sham coaching. The present intermediate effects highlight the challenge to sustainably improve PA in patients with COPD. Results on 12-month follow-up will provide more insight on long-term effects.