Abstract: 【Abstract】Objective To assess the physical fitness level and to determine the important predictors for physical fitness level in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods This study included 103 MHD patients treated in West China Hospital of Sichuan University, and investigated their general data and physical fitness levels including six-minute walking test, grip strength and Berg balance scale. Results The physical ability decreased significantly in MHD patients. The total distance of 6- minute walking test was 424.64 ±91.45m, the grip strength was 24.97±8.55kg, and the score of Berg balance scale was 50.90±5.76. Multivariate linear regression showed that sleep disorder (β=-0.365, P=0.001) was the independent risk factor for 6-minute walking test; age (β= -0.431, P=0.000) and BMI (β=0.301, P=0.002) were the independent risk factors for grip strength; age (β=-0.280, P=0.013) and diabetes (β=-0.275, P=0.023) were the independent risk factors for balance ability. Conclusion The physical fitness level reduced in MHD patients. Early recognition of risk factors for physical fitness level, multi-disciplinary cooperation, and maintenance and promotion of physical fitness level are important measures to improve their quality of life and return to society.

Key words: Hemodialysis, Fitness level, Six-minute walking test, Grip strength, Balance