Resistance Training Shows Promise for Long COVID Recovery
A three-month resistance exercise program developed by researchers at the University of Glasgow (United Kingdom) has demonstrated significant improvements in both physical and mental health for individuals experiencing persistent symptoms following a COVID-19 infection, including those who previously had severe cases. The findings, presented at the 2025 Annual Scientific Sessions of the American Heart Association and published in JAMA Network, reveal that participants engaging in the program experienced increased grip strength, improved quality of life, and reduced anxiety and depression compared to those who did not participate.
The study, a collaboration between the University of Glasgow, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, the University of Dundee, and NHS Tayside, involved over 230 people previously diagnosed with COVID-19, whether treated in a primary care setting or a hospital. Participants were randomly assigned to either a resistance training group or a control group. The exercise program consisted of three categories of exercises, tailored to each individual’s health status and capacity.
The program was designed for accessibility, starting with exercises performed lying down for those who were bedridden, progressing to sitting or standing exercises as participants recovered. Initially focusing on upper body strength,lower body exercises were gradually incorporated starting in the third week.
“Our study demonstrates the benefits of resistance training in recovery from Covid-19 and suggests that people affected by persistent symptoms after Covid-19 could benefit from adopting this type of exercise,” explained Professor colin Berry, principal investigator of the CISCO study and Professor of Cardiology and Imaging at the University of Glasgow. He further emphasized that these results are an “encouraging advance” contributing to a better understanding of long COVID treatment.
Participants in the resistance training group also showed a “significantly greater” ability to walk longer distances in a shuttle walking test after three months.
According to Professor Stuart Gray, lead designer of the exercise intervention and Professor of Muscle and Metabolic Health at the University of Glasgow, “The exercises were designed to be safe, simple and easy to perform where and when it was most convenient for the participant, meaning they can be easily implemented in the long-COVID community.” He described the positive outcomes as “extremely encouraging,” highlighting the program’s effectiveness in improving physical function, mental health, and overall quality of life.