Introduction Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) are prevalent chronic respiratory diseases associated with increased comorbidity, mortality and healthcare costs. Physical activity and exercise are widely recommended as part of treatment for these conditions, yet the specific effects of Nordic walking (NW) remain underexplored.
The aims of this randomised controlled trial (RCT) are to improve physical fitness, functional capacity and respiratory health and increase regular physical activity and quality of life of older adults with asthma and/or COPD and/or OSA through a supervised 3-month group-based NW intervention combined with resistance, balance and mobility training. Methods and analysis This single-blinded, parallel-group RCT will recruit 100 adults aged 55–80 years diagnosed with asthma and/or COPD and/or OSA in the Northern Savo region of Finland.
Participants will be randomly allocated to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group will participate in a 12-week supervised exercise programme consisting of progressive NW sessions twice per week and resistance, balance and mobility training once per week.
The primary outcome is a change in cardiorespiratory endurance.
BMJ Open published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 10 Jun 2026.
The item focuses on Measured and supervised physical exercise for older individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and obstructive sleep apnoea (MIOLI): protocol of a randomised controlled trial.
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