An integrated gym-home model for the management of dyspnea: experience from the Esercizio Vita Health Gym

Dyspnea related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and physical deconditioning represents a major determinant of functional limitation and reduced quality of life. At the Esercizio Vita Medical Fitness Health Gym in Ferrara, a structured exercise-based management model integrated with digital support has been implemented. The program includes an initial consultation focused on medical history and individualized outcome definition, followed by a standardized functional motor assessment to quantify exercise tolerance. Two intervention pathways are available: 1) twice-weekly supervised training combined with online respiratory and strengthening sessions; 2) an intensive in-person phase consisting of eight sessions aimed at technical mastery, followed by home-based training delivered through a dedicated mobile application. Follow-up assessments at 3, 6, and 8 months allow monitoring of clinical and functional outcomes. This integrated model shows potential to improve adherence, safety, and functional capacity in patients with chronic dyspnea.