High-intensity interval ergometer training improves aerobic capacity and fatigue in patients with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Moderate endurance training leads to a significant improvement of aerobic fitness and fatigue in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) have not systematically investigated. To determine the effects of short-term HIIT on aerobic fitness and fatigue in MS patients. Prospective monocentric, randomized, simple blinded cohort study. Participants exercised for 8 weeks on a bicycle ergometer three times weekly for 8 weeks. Forty patients with relapsing–remitting MS and an extended disability status score (EDSS) of < 3.5 participated. For 8 weeks, participants exercised three times weekly for 30 min according to two different protocols (HIIT versus moderate endurance training). Measurements were taken at baseline and after 8 weeks of training. Individual aerobic fitness (VO2peak) was assessed via a stepwise ramp protocol, fatigue by the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and ambulation was measured by the Timed 25-Foot Walk Test (T25-FW). Data were analysed according to the intention-to-treat (ITT) approach. Aerobic fitness increased significantly in the HIIT group (pre: 26.7 ± 6.1, post: 29.7 ± 6.6 ml/min/kg; p < 0.04). No changes with regard to FSS and T25FW were detected in both groups. However, sub-group analysis revealed a significant decrease of fatigue in patients with elevated baseline fatigue (pre: 5.00 ± 0.7, post: 4.7 ± 1.2; p = 0.03). HIIT is a promising time-efficient approach in subjects with MS leading to rapid improvement of aerobic fitness.