Influence of High Intensity Body-Weight Circuit Training in Adults with Type II Diabetes.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To determine the effectiveness of a 15-week intervention of a minimal dose high-intensity bodyweight circuit (HIBC) program in persons with type 2 diabetes (T2D) on markers of metabolic function, autonomic balance, and body composition. METHODS: Three females (55±4yrs) and two males (64±1yrs) with T2D underwent assessments of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose (FG), insulin (INS), and lipids. Body composition was determined using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, aerobic fitness (submaximal treadmill test), blood pressure (SBP/DBP), and resting heart rate (RHR) were assessed. Participants completed 15-weeks of bodyweight circuit training (10 banded bodyweight squats, 5 modified pull-ups, 5 modified push-ups, 10 abdominal crunches). Participants completed as many cycles as possible in each session. Session duration progressed from 5-10 minutes, as tolerated, and session frequency progressed from 3-4 sessions per week. All assessments were repeated after 15 weeks of training. RESULTS: Body composition: Pre and Post changes in mean weight (p = 0.395), body fat % (p = 0.632), lean mass (p = 0.372). Aerobic fitness: estimated VO2max (p = 0.232), SBP (p = 0.062), DBP (p = 0.90), RHR (p = 0.727). Metabolic biomarkers: FG (p = 0.942), HDL (p = 0.271), LDL (p = 0.671), HbA1c (p = 0.810), INS (p = 0.762). CONCLUSIONS: The HIBC did not appear to be effective in improving markers of metabolic function or health-related physical fitness in the five participants. However, when removing a singular outlaying participant, several factors demonstrate substantial improvements in several outcome measures. HIBC may be an appropriate and appealing intervention for those with T2D.