Combinations of training programs were also
evaluated. Although only a small number of subjects
completed the full 24-week program in which
treadmill training followed strength training, these
subjects had the expected increase in peak treadmill
walking time after the addition of 12 weeks of
treadmill training. Consistent with this training
effect, improvements in WIQ speed scores were
maintained, and Vitalog-assessed activity also increased.
In contrast, although the combined training
program improved treadmill exercise performance,
no improvement was seen in questionnaire or Vitalog
measures of physical functioning. Clearly this study
did not have sufficient subjects to definitively address
the benefits of the combined training modalities.
However, when compared with the significant
changes in functional status and physical activity with
treadmill training alone, further study of the combined
training programs was not believed to be
warranted.