Table 3. Practical indications for considering the use of an interval training approach
Interval training may be more appropriate when the patient presents with:
    A severe airflow obstruction (FEV1 <40% pred)
    A low exercise capacity (peak work rate <60% pred)
    A total time at a constant work rate test of <10 min
    A marked oxygen desaturation during exercise (SpO2 <85%)
    An intolerable dyspnoea during continuous endurance training

  • FEV1: forced expiratory volume in 1 s; % pred: % predicted; SpO2: arterial oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry.