Rehabilitation for Post-COVID-19 Syndrome Through a Supervised Exercise Intervention

Participants from the experimental group will complete 8 weeks of a tailored, educational and supervised multicomponent exercise program adapted from the ACSM guidelines for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Cardiovascular Disease. Participants will complete a 3-days-a-week concurrent training routine: two days of resistance training (50% 1RM (one-repetition maximum), 3 sets, 8 repetitions, 4 exercises \[squat, bench press, deadlift and bench pull\]) combined with Moderate Intensity Variable Training (MIVT: 4-6 x 3-5 min at 70-80% Heart Rate Reserve (HRR) / 2-3 min at 55-65% HRR), and one day of Light Intensity Continuous Training (LICT: 30-60 min, 65-70% HRR). Progressions will be individualized and consistent with patient tolerance. Sessions will be supervised by certified strength and conditioning coaches, Graduated in Sports Sciences

Participants enrolled in the inspiratory muscle training protocol will used the PowerBreath® Classic Heath Series mechanic threshold devices to perform 1 set of 30 repetitions, twice a day, every day of the week. This assumes a work intensity of approximately 62.5% ± 4.6% of the PIM (maximum inspiratory pressure). Increase in resistance will be made every two weeks by turning the load adjustment clockwise ¼ to 1 full turn, pending on participant tolerance to maintain a 12-15 RPE on modified Borg scale. The training will be preceded by a warm-up at 80% of the 30 RM load, with 2 min of rest between sets

Controls will be advised (non-supervised) to follow the WHO guidelines: Support for Rehabilitation: Self-Management after COVID-19 Related Illness