Testing eccentric cycling exercise for older adults with weak muscles and heart failure

Plain-English translation of NCT06826963 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated March 2025 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This study is testing whether eccentric cycling—a special form of exercise performed on a stationary bike—can help older adults with heart failure and muscle loss. Eccentric exercise focuses on the lengthening phase of muscle movement, which may be gentler on the heart while still building strength. The researchers want to see if this type of exercise is safe, practical, and effective for people in this age group.

Older adults with heart failure often lose muscle mass and strength, which makes daily activities harder and can worsen their health. Most standard exercise programs may be too intense or risky for this group, so researchers are exploring whether this gentler form of exercise could help them stay strong without putting extra strain on their heart.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 65 and 85 years old
you have been diagnosed with stable heart failure (either with a normal or weakened pumping function)
you have reduced muscle mass or strength compared to healthy people your age
you can walk and perform light daily activities (classified as NYHA class 1, 2, or 3)
your heart condition has been stable for at least several weeks

You likely don't qualify if…

you have severe or unstable heart disease, including severe valve problems or severe irregular heartbeats
you have had a blood clot in your legs or lungs within the past three months
you have received a heart transplant
you have severe high blood pressure in your lungs (greater than 70 mmHg)
you have other serious medical conditions that severely limit what you can do physically

What participation looks like

If you join this study, you would start with a two-week practice phase to get comfortable using the eccentric cycling equipment and learn how hard to work. Then you would exercise for three months: twice a week for the first month, then three times a week for the next two months. Each session is supervised by trained exercise specialists who watch your heart rate and comfort level to keep you safe. You'll also have tests at the beginning and end to measure your muscle strength and how much your health has improved.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 5, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(2 sites)

Italy

University of Verona, Verona, Verona

View full record on ClinicalTrials.gov