High-intensity Aerobic Interval Training Research Articles

Increased Brain Glucose Uptake After 12 Weeks of Aerobic High-Intensity Interval Training in Young and Older Adults

Aerobic exercise training can increase brain volume and blood flow, but the impact on brain metabolism is less known. We determined whether high-intensity interval training (HIIT) increases brain metabolism by measuring brain glucose uptake in younger and older adults. Brain glucose uptake was measured before and after HIIT or a sedentary (SED) control period within a larger exercise study. Study procedures were performed at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Participants were younger (18 to 30 years) or older (65 to 80 years) SED adults who were free of major medical conditions. Group sizes were 15 for HIIT (nine younger and six older) and 12 for SED (six younger and six older). Participants completed 12 weeks of HIIT or SED. HIIT was 3 days per week of 4 × 4 minute intervals at over 90% of peak aerobic capacity (VO2peak) with 2 days per week of treadmill walking at 70% VO2peak. Resting brain glucose uptake was measured using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scans at baseline and at week 12. Scans were performed at 96 hours after exercise. VO2peak was measured by indirect calorimetry. Glucose uptake increased significantly in the parietal-temporal and caudate regions after HIIT compared with SED. The gains with HIIT were not observed in all brain regions. VO2peak was increased for all participants after HIIT and did not change with SED. We demonstrate that brain glucose metabolism increased after 12 weeks of HIIT in adults in regions where it is reduced in Alzheimer's disease.

Arterial stiffness and central blood pressures after 8 weeks of supervised exercise training in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomised controlled trial

Background: Arterial stiffness predicts cardiovascular events and is thought to increase with glucose intolerance. Moderate intensity continuous aerobic training with moderate intensity resistance training (MICT + MR) has been shown to improve arterial stiffness in patients with chronic disease. The combination of high-intensity interval aerobic training with high-intensity resistance training (HIIT + HR) has not been previously investigated in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of 8 weeks of HIIT + HR with MICT + MR on arterial stiffness in patients with T2D.

Effects of repeated yearly exposure to exercise-training on blood pressure and metabolic syndrome evolution.

To study if repeated yearly training programs consolidate the transient blood pressure (BP) improvements of one exercise program into durable adaptations. Obese middle-age individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) underwent high-intensity aerobic interval training during 16 weeks (November to mid-March) in 3 consecutive years [training group (TRAIN); N = 23]. Evolution of MetS components was compared with a matched-group that remained sedentary [control group (CONT); N = 26]. At the end of the first training program (0-4 months), TRAIN lowered systolic arterial pressure, blood glucose, waist circumference and MetS Z-score below CONT (-8.5 ± 2.5 mmHg; -19.9 ± 2.6 mg/dl; -3.8 ± 0.1 cm and -0.3 ± 0.1, respectively, all P < 0.05). With detraining (month 4-12) TRAIN adaptations relapsed to the levels of baseline (month 0) except for BP. A second exercise program (month 12-16) lowered blood glucose and waist circumference below CONT (-19.0 ± 2.0 mg/dl; -4.1 ± 0.1 cm). After detraining (month 16-24) BP, blood glucose and Z-score started below CONT values (-6.8 ± 0.9 mmHg; -24.6 ± 2.5 mg/dl and -0.4 ± 0.05, respectively, all P < 0.05) and those differences enlarged with the last training program (month 24-28). Ten-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk estimation increased only in CONT (8.6 ± 1.1-10.1 ± 1.3%; year 2-3; P < 0.05). At least two consecutive years of 4-month aerobic interval training are required to chronically improve MetS (Z-score). The chronic effect is mediated by BP that does not fully return to pretraining values allowing a cumulative improvement. On the other hand, sedentarism in MetS patients during 3 years increases their predicted atherosclerotic diseases risk. CLINICALTRIALS. NCT03019796.

Roller-Ski Aerobic High-Intensity Interval Training Improves the VO2max and Anaerobic Power in Cross-Country Skiers

The purpose of this study was to investigate the 8-week of roller-ski aerobic high-intensity interval training on aerobic and anaerobic power in cross-country skiers. 10 male [age, 18,28±2,1 years; height, 171,26±4,12 cm; weight, 61,39±6,28 kg] and 8 female [age, 16,05±0.3 years; height, 158,3±6,47 cm; weight, 49,34±0.7 kg] junior cross-country skiers completed the study. All skiers performed 2x2-km all-out uphill intervals with roller-skis, 3 times a week, in addition to their traditional training program. Measurements included VO2max, anaerobic power, and also for 2-km time-trial performance. All values were listed as pre-to post-test mean [±SD], significant level, and percentage changes [%]. Pre-to post-testing changes in VO2max, anaerobic power, and also 2-km time-trial performance were significantly higher during all post-test trials in all groups [p&lt;0.005]. As a result, we suggest that the skiers should integrate the roller-ski aerobic high-intensity interval uphill models in their training programs for improving performance.

Development of low-volume, high-intensity, aerobic-type interval training for elderly Japanese men: a feasibility study

BackgroundThe purposes of this study were to identify 1) the feasibility of a novel exercise protocol (elderly Japanese male version of high-intensity interval aerobic training: EJ-HIAT) and 2) its preliminary data (%V̇O2peak, rating of perceived exertion) in comparison with traditional moderate-intensity continuous aerobic training (MICT).ResultsTwenty-one sedentary elderly men, aged 60–69 years, performed two exercise protocols: EJ-HIAT, consisting of 3 sets of 2−3-min cycling at 75−85%V̇O2peak with 1−2-min active rests at 50%V̇O2peak between sets, and MICT, consisting of 40-min cycling at 65%V̇O2peak. The completion rate, defined as the rate of participants who 1) did not demand withdrawal, 2) were not interrupted by the tester, and 3) did not change the workload during either exercise protocol, of EJ-HIAT was similar to that of MICT (EJ-HIAT: 100%, MICT: 95.2%). Maximal perceived exertion ratings assessed by Borg scale were also similar between EJ-HIAT and MICT. However, objectively measured maximal intensity assessed by %V̇O2peak was higher for EJ-HIAT than for MICT (EJ-HIAT: 86.0 ± 5.6%, MICT: 67.1 ± 6.4%).ConclusionThese results suggested that EJ-HIAT has good feasibility and perceived exertion similar to MICT despite having higher objectively measured intensity than MICT. An intervention aimed as identifying the effects of EJ-HIAT on exercise tolerance should be performed in the future.Trial registrationUMIN000021185 (February 26, 2016).

Aerobic interval training reduces vascular resistances during submaximal exercise in obese metabolic syndrome individuals.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of high-intensity aerobic interval training (AIT) on exercise hemodynamics in metabolic syndrome (MetS) volunteers. Thirty-eight, MetS participants were randomly assigned to a training (TRAIN) or to a non-training control (CONT) group. TRAIN consisted of stationary interval cycling alternating bouts at 70-90% of maximal heart rate during 45minday-1 for 6months. CONT maintained baseline physical activity and no changes in cardiovascular function or MetS factors were detected. In contrast, TRAIN increased cardiorespiratory fitness (14% in VO2PEAK; 95% CI 9-18%) and improved metabolic syndrome (-42% in Z score; 95% CI 83-1%). After TRAIN, the workload that elicited a VO2 of 1500mlmin-1 increased 15% (95% CI 5-25%; P<0.001). After TRAIN when subjects pedaled at an identical submaximal rate of oxygen consumption, cardiac output increased by 8% (95% CI 4-11%; P<0.01) and stroke volume by 10% (95% CI, 6-14%; P<0.005) being above the CONT group values at that time point. TRAIN reduced submaximal exercise heart rate (109±15-106±13beatsmin-1; P<0.05), diastolic blood pressure (83±8-75±8mmHg; P<0.001) and systemic vascular resistances (P<0.01) below CONT values. Double product was reduced only after TRAIN (18.2±3.2-17.4±2.4btmin-1mmHg10-3; P<0.05). The data suggest that intense aerobic interval training improves hemodynamics during submaximal exercise in MetS patients. Specifically, it reduces diastolic blood pressure, systemic vascular resistances, and the double product. The reduction in double product, suggests decreased myocardial oxygen demands which could prevent the occurrence of adverse cardiovascular events during exercise in this population. CLINICALTRIALS. NCT03019796.

The effect of three different exercise training modalities on cognitive and physical function in a healthy older population

BackgroundOlder adults are encouraged to participate in regular physical activity to counter the age-related declines in physical and cognitive health. Literature on the effect of different exercise training modalities (aerobic vs resistance) on these health-related outcomes is not only sparse, but results are inconsistent. In general, it is believed that exercise has a positive effect on executive cognitive function, possibly because of the physiological adaptations through increases in fitness. Indications are that high-intensity interval training is a potent stimulus to improve cardiovascular fitness, even in older adults; however, its effect on cognitive function has not been studied before.Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the effects of resistance training, high-intensity aerobic interval training and moderate continuous aerobic training on the cognitive and physical functioning of healthy older adults.MethodsSixty-seven inactive individuals (55 to 75 years) were randomly assigned to a resistance training (RT) group (n = 22), high-intensity aerobic interval training (HIIT) group (n = 13), moderate continuous aerobic training (MCT) group (n = 13) and a control (CON) group (n = 19) for a period of 16 weeks. Cognitive function was assessed with a Stroop task and physical function with the Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) and submaximal Bruce treadmill tests.ResultsNo significant GROUP x TIME interaction was found for Stroop reaction time (P > .05). The HIIT group showed the greatest practical significant improvement in reaction time on the information processing task, i.e. Stroop Neutral (ES = 1.11). MCT group participants had very large practical significant improvements in reaction time on the executive cognitive tasks, i.e. Stroop Incongruent and Interference (ES = 1.28 and 1.31, respectively). The HIIT group showed the largest practically significant increase in measures of physical function, i.e. walking endurance (ES = 0.91) and functional mobility (ES = 0.36).ConclusionsMCT and RT proved to be superior to HIIT for the enhancement of older individuals’ executive cognitive function; whereas HIIT were most beneficial for improvement in information processing speed. HIIT also induced the largest gains in physical function.

Ambulatory blood pressure response to a bout of HIIT in metabolic syndrome patients.

The effectiveness of exercise to lower blood pressure may depend on the type and intensity of exercise. We study the short-term (i.e., 14-h) effects of a bout of high-intensity aerobic interval training (HIIT) on blood pressure in metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients. Nineteen MetS patients (55.2±7.3years, 6 women) entered the study. Eight of them were normotensive and eleven hypertensive according to MetS threshold (≥130mmHg for SBP and/or ≥85mmHg for DBP). In the morning of 3 separated days, they underwent a cycling exercise bout of HIIT (>90% of maximal heart rate, ~85% VO2max), or a bout of isocaloric moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT; ~70% of maximal heart rate, ~60% VO2max), or a control no-exercise trial (REST). After exercise, ambulatory blood pressure (ABP; 14h) was monitored, while subjects continued their habitual daily activities wearing a wrist-band activity monitor. No ABP differences were found for normotensive subjects. In hypertensive subjects, systolic ABP was reduced by 6.1±2.2mmHg after HIIT compared to MICT and REST (130.8±3.9 vs. 137.4±5.1 and 136.4±3.8mmHg, respectively; p<0.05). However, diastolic ABP was similar in all three trials (77.2±2.6 vs. 78.0±2.6 and 78.9±2.8mmHg, respectively). Motion analysis revealed no differences among trials during the 14-h. This study suggests that the blood pressure reducing effect of a bout of exercise is influence by the intensity of exercise. A HIIT exercise bout is superior to an equivalent bout of continuous exercise when used as a non-pharmacological aid in the treatment of hypertension in MetS.

Head-down Tilt High Aerobic Intensity Training Effect On Vo2max And Stroke Volume Adaptations

The majority of evidence points to the stroke volume (SV) of the heart being the major limiting factor for maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in healthy humans. High-intensity aerobic interval training has previously been found to improve VO2max more than low and moderate intensity aerobic training when matched for total work. Haemodynamics are affected by venous return and positioning of the working muscles in relation to the heart. PURPOSE: It is the aim of the present study to investigate the effects of interval training with the legs placed above the heart. METHODS: A total of 28 young, healthy, untrained males were randomly assigned cycle training of 4x4 min intervals at 90 - 95% of HRmax with their legs higher than the level of the heart (STG) or on a conventional upright cycle (UTG) for 24 sessions over 6 weeks. VO2max, maximal SV (SVmax), submaximal heart rate (HR100W), and maximal power output (MPO) were examined before and after the training period. RESULTS: No significant difference was apparent between the groups in VO2max-improvement for from pre- to posttest when tested in either postural position. Both groups increased absolute VO2max (L•min-1) significantly, by 15.3% in UTG and 16.5% in STG (P < 0.01) in upright cycling, and 9.4% (UTG) and 15.9% (STG) in supine cycling (P < 0.01). These adaptations were accompanied by increased SV of 8.9% and 10.6% for UTG and STG, respectively (P < 0.05), and reduced submaximal HR (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: High-intensity aerobic interval training performed in a 4x4 min fashion in either the upright or supine position does not lead to different adaptations in VO2max. However, high-intensity interval training four times per week is an effective means to improve VO2max in young, untrained males. Also, since the improvement in SV did not differ between groups this is further testament to the heart being an important modulating factor for VO2max-improvements.Figure

VO2max and Hba1c 3 Months After Participating In High-intensity Aerobic Interval Training Among Persons With Type 2 Diabetes.

VO2max and Hba1c 3 Months After Participating In High-intensity Aerobic Interval Training Among Persons With Type 2 Diabetes.

The effect of high-intensity aerobic interval training on markers of systemic inflammation in sedentary populations.

This study examined the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT; 30s sprint, 4-5min passive recovery) and prolonged intermittent sprint training (PIST; 10s sprint, 2-3min moderate exercise) on the systemic inflammatory markers C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), aerobic capacity, and anthropometry in a middle-aged, sedentary population. Fifty-five sedentary adults (age 49.2±6.1years) were randomised into HIIT (n=20), PIST (n=21), or a sedentary control group (CTRL n=14). HIIT and PIST performed three training sessions per week for 9weeks on a cycle ergometer, matched for total high-intensity time, while CTRL continued normal sedentary behaviours. Pre- and post-intervention testing involved measures of anthropometry, peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), and venous blood collection for analyses of CRP and TNF-α. HIIT and PIST increased VO2peak compared to CTRL (+3.66±2.23 and 3.74±2.62mLkgmin-1). A group×time interaction (p=0.042) and main effect of time (p=0.026) were evident for waist girth, with only HIIT showing a significant reduction compared to CTRL (-2.1±2.8cm). TNF-α and CRP showed no group×time interaction or time effect (p>0.05). In sedentary individuals, 9weeks of HIIT or PIST were effective to improve aerobic capacity; however, only HIIT significantly reduced waist girth and WHR compared to CTRL. Markers of systemic inflammation remained unchanged across all groups. Accordingly, for inflammation and VO2peak, the distribution of sprints and the active or passive recovery periods are inconsequential provided that total duration of high-intensity efforts is similar.

Enhanced Protein Translation Underlies Improved Metabolic and Physical Adaptations to Different Exercise Training Modes in Young and Old Humans

The molecular transducers of benefits from different exercise modalities remain incompletely defined. Here we report that 12weeks of high-intensity aerobic interval (HIIT), resistance (RT), and combined exercise training enhanced insulin sensitivity and lean mass, but only HIIT and combined training improved aerobic capacity and skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration. HIIT revealed a more robust increase ingene transcripts than other exercise modalities, particularly in older adults, although little overlap with corresponding individual protein abundance was noted. HIIT reversed many age-related differences in the proteome, particularly of mitochondrial proteins in concert with increased mitochondrial protein synthesis. Both RT and HIIT enhanced proteins involved in translational machinery irrespective of age. Only small changes of methylation of DNA promoter regions were observed. We provide evidence for predominant exercise regulation at the translational level, enhancing translational capacity and proteome abundance to explain phenotypic gains in muscle mitochondrial function and hypertrophy in all ages.

The Effect of High-Intensity Aerobic Continuous and Anaerobic Interval Training at 3,000 m Hypobaric Hypoxic Condition for Six-weeks on Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise Capacity in Competitive Swimmers

The Effect of High-Intensity Aerobic Continuous and Anaerobic Interval Training at 3,000 m Hypobaric Hypoxic Condition for Six-weeks on Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise Capacity in Competitive Swimmers

High-Intensity Aerobic Exercise Improves Both Hepatic Fat Content and Stiffness in Sedentary Obese Men with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

We compared the effects of 12-week programs of resistance training (RT), high-intensity interval aerobic training (HIAT), and moderate-intensity continuous aerobic training (MICT). The primary goal was to evaluate the therapeutic effects of the exercise modalities for the management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). A total of 61 sedentary obese men with NAFLD were randomized into one of the following exercise regimens (RT, HIAT, or MICT). Hepatic fat content was decreased to a similar extent in the RT, HIAT, and MICT groups (−14.3% vs. −13.7% vs. −14.3%) without significant changes in weight and visceral fat. The gene expression levels of fatty acid synthesis were significantly decreased in the subjects’ monocytes. Hepatic stiffness was decreased only in the HIAT group (−16.8%). The stiffness change was associated with restored Kupffer cell phagocytic function (+17.8%) and decreased levels of inflammation such as leptin (−13.2%) and ferritin (−14.1%). RT, HIAT, and MICT were equally effective in reducing hepatic fat content, but only HIAT was effective in improving hepatic stiffness and restoring Kupffer cell function. These benefits appeared to be independent of detectable weight and visceral fat reductions; the benefits were acquired through the modulation of in vivo fatty acid metabolism and obesity-related inflammatory conditions.

Effect of roller-ski aerobic high-intensity interval training on leg muscle strength in cross-country skiers

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of roller-ski aerobic high-intensity interval training on leg muscle strength and time-trial performance after 8-week of roller-ski uphill traini...

Effect of Aerobic High-Intensity Interval Training on VO2max and Anaerobic Power in Cross-Country Skiers

Effect of Aerobic High-Intensity Interval Training on VO2max and Anaerobic Power in Cross-Country Skiers

Exercise training modalities in chronic heart failure: does high intensity aerobic interval training make the difference?

Exercise training (ET) is strongly recommended in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Moderate-intensity aerobic continuous ET is the best established training modality in CHF patients. In the last decade, however, high-intensity interval exercise training (HIIT) has aroused considerable interest in cardiac rehabilitation community. Basically, HIIT consists of repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise alternated with recovery periods. In CHF patients, HIIT exerts larger improvements in exercise capacity compared to moderate-continuous ET. These results are intriguing, mostly considering that better functional capacity translates into an improvement of symptoms and quality of life. Notably, HIIT did not reveal major safety issues; although CHF patients should be clinically stable, have had recent exposure to at least regular moderate-intensity exercise, and appropriate supervision and monitoring during and after the exercise session are mandatory. The impact of HIIT on cardiac dimensions and function and on endothelial function remains uncertain. HIIT should not replace other training modalities in heart failure but should rather complement them. Combining and tailoring different ET modalities according to each patient's baseline clinical characteristics (i.e. exercise capacity, personal needs, preferences and goals) seem the most astute approach to exercise prescription.

Effects of high-intensity aerobic exercise on psychotic symptoms and neurocognition in outpatients with schizophrenia: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BackgroundThe focus in recent years on physical inactivity and metabolic disturbances in individuals with schizophrenia raises the question of potential effects of physical activity. Physical activity has shown beneficial effects on cognition in healthy older individuals as well as on symptom severity in depression. However, opinions diverge regarding whether aerobic high-intensity interval training reduces cognition and key symptoms in schizophrenia. The main objective for the trial is to investigate the potential effects of aerobic high-intensity interval training on neurocognitive function and mental symptoms in outpatients with schizophrenia.Methods/DesignThe trial is designed as a randomized controlled, observer-blinded clinical trial. Patients are randomized to 1 of 2 treatment arms with 12-week duration: aerobic high-intensity interval training or computer gaming skills training. All participants also receive treatment as usual. Primary outcome measure is neurocognitive function. Secondary outcome measures will be positive and negative symptoms, wellbeing, tobacco-smoking patterns and physiological/metabolic parameters. Patient recruitment takes place in catchment area-based outpatient clinics.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02205684. Registered 29 July 2014.

Concurrent exercise on a gravity-independent device during simulated microgravity.

The objective of this study is to examine the effect of a high-intensity concurrent training program using a single gravity-independent device on maintaining skeletal muscle function and aerobic capacity during short-term unilateral lower limb suspension (ULLS). Nineteen subjects (10 males and 9 females; 21.0 ± 2.5 yr, 65.4 ± 12.2 kg) were separated into two groups: 1) 10-d ULLS only (n = 9) and 2) 10-d ULLS plus aerobic and resistance training (ULLS + EX, n = 10). Exercise was performed on a single gravity-independent Multi-Mode Exercise Device (M-MED) with alternating days of high-intensity interval aerobic training and maximal exertion resistance training. Aerobic capacity increased by 7% in ULLS + EX (P < 0.05). Knee extensor and ankle plantar flexor three-repetition maximum increased in the ULLS + EX group (P < 0.05), but this change was only different from ULLS in the plantar flexors (P < 0.05). Peak torque levels decreased with ULLS but were increased for the knee extensors and attenuated for the ankle plantar flexors with ULLS + EX (P < 0.05). A shift toward type IIx myosin heavy-chain mRNA occurred with ULLS and was reversed with ULLS + EX in the vastus lateralis (P < 0.05) but not the soleus. Myostatin and atrogin increased with ULLS in both the vastus lateralis and soleus, but this change was mitigated with ULLS + EX only in the vastus lateralis (P = 0.0551 for myostatin, P < 0.05 for atrogin). Citrate synthase was decreased in the soleus during ULLS but was increased with ULLS + EX (P < 0.05). These results indicate that an M-MED class countermeasure device appears to be effective at mitigating the deconditioning effects of microgravity simulated during a modified ULLS protocol.

Effect of Change in VO2max on Daily Total Energy Expenditure in a Cohort of Norwegian Men: A Randomized Pilot Study.

Objective: To investigate how a change in VO2max induced through 6 weeks of high intensity aerobic interval training affects daily total energy expenditure (TEE), active energy expenditure (AEE) and mitochondrial function in people not previously exposed to structured high intensity aerobic interval training (AIT). Methods: Thirty healthy males (39±6 yrs) not exposed to structured exercise training were randomized to either 1x4 min AIT (1-AIT), 4x4 min AIT (4-AIT), both at 90-95% maximum heart rate (HRmax) or 47 min of MCT at 70% HRmax. TEE, AEE, number of steps, active time, sedentary time, VO2max and mitochondrial function in m. vastus lateralis were measured before and after intervention.Results: TEE increased 14% (p=0.014) and AEE increased 43% (p= 0.004) after MCT. There was no change in TEE or AEE after 1-AIT or 4-AIT, but 1-AIT had significantly lower TEE (p=0.033) and step-count (p=0.011) compared to MCT post intervention. VO2max increased 7% after 1-AIT (p= 0.004) and 9% after 4-AIT (p=0.004), with no change after MCT. No change was observed in maximal mitochondrial respiration (VMAX) or Citrate Synthase (CS) activity within or between interventions. Basal respiration (V0) increased after 1-AIT (p=0.029) and 4-AIT (p=0.022), with no significant change after MCT.Conclusion: AIT interventions that increase VO2max, do not stimulate subjects to increase TEE or AEE. The intensity of exercise seems to play apart, as MCT increased TEE and AEE and AIT did not. Emphasis should be placed on the importance of maintaining everyday activities when introducing structured exercise training to untrained individuals.