Abstract: Objective To explore the effect of rehabilitation exercise combined with encouragement on the quality of life of
patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods A total of 120 inpatients with moderate or severe
COPD in stable conditions were randomized equally into experimental and control groups. The patients in both groups
received routine treatment for 1 year, and those in the experimental group had additional respiratory muscle and limb
exercises with encouragement. The quality of life, 6-min walking distance, lung function, anxiety and depression levels were
compared between the two groups before and after the treatments. Results The quality of life was improved significantly in
the experimental group after the treatments (P<0.01) with obviously increased 6-min walking distance and lowered levels of
anxiety and depression in comparison with those in the control group (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the patients
in the experimental group showed also significantly improved lung functions. Conclusion Comprehensive pulmonary
rehabilitation training program with exercise combined with encouragement can improve the physical and emotional state,
social adapt ability and the quality of life of patients with COPD.