The Effects of Aquatic Exercise Training on Functional and Hemodynamic Responses in Patients With Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of water-based exercise training on functional and hemodynamic outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF). Analyzing 16 studies with 349 participants, the review found that water exercise significantly improved peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2) and reduced resting heart rate compared to no exercise, while combined water and land exercise also lowered resting heart rate compared to land exercise alone. Acute water exercise was associated with decreased heart rate and increased stroke volume and cardiac output from baseline. However, measures such as six-minute walk distance, exercise capacity, and blood pressure showed no significant changes. The findings suggest that aquatic exercise may be a beneficial adjunct therapy for improving certain cardiovascular and functional parameters in HF patients, though further high-quality research is needed to confirm long-term effects and optimize intervention protocols.