After successfully completing all initial testing, subjects were
randomly assigned to one of two isocaloric aerobic exercise training
groups based on neuropathy status: 1) moderate intensity aerobic
training (45 min done at 50% of HRR); or 2) vigorous intensity
aerobic training (30 min at 75% of HRR). Aerobic exercise during
each training session consisted of treadmill walking or running,
stationary cycling, and/or elliptical strider workouts done at the
correct intensity for the prescribed amount of time on three,
nonconsecutive days per week.
Each subject wore a Polar heart rate monitor during all supervised
training to ensure that the proper intensity of exercise was being
performed. All exercise resulted in equivalent caloric expenditures by
type, i.e., 45 min of aerobic work done at 50% HRR was the caloric
equivalent of 30 min at 75% HRR. Following 12 weeks of training, subjects
repeated the initial exercise testing session within 48–72 h after the last
exercise session to avoid any acute effects of recent exercise.