High Intensity Interval Training Reduces the Levels of Serum Inflammatory Cytokine on Women with Metabolic Syndrome

Comparison of HIIT and MICT and further detraining on metabolic syndrome and asprosin signaling pathway in metabolic syndrome model of rats

Physical activity promotes various metabolic benefits by balancing pro and anti-inflammatory adipokines. Recent studies suggest that asprosin might be involved in progression of metabolic syndrome (MetS), however, the underlying mechanisms have not been understood yet. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), and further detraining on MetS indices, insulin resistance, serum and the liver levels of asprosin, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway in menopause-induced MetS model of rats. A total of 64 Wistar rats were used in this study and divided into eight groups: Sham1, OVX1 (ovariectomized), Sham2, OVX2, OVX + HIIT, OVX + MICT, OVX + HIIT + Det (detraining), and OVX + MICT + Det. Animals performed the protocols, and then serum concentrations of asprosin, TNF-α, insulin, fasting blood glucose, and lipid profiles (TC, LDL, TG, and HDL) were assessed. Additionally, the liver expression of asprosin, AMPK, and P-AMPK was measured by western blotting. Both HIIT and MICT caused a significant decrease in weight, waist circumference, BMI (P = 0.001), and serum levels of glucose, insulin, asprosin (P = 0.001), triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and TNF-α (P = 0.001), but an increase in the liver AMPK, P-AMPK, and P-AMPK/AMPK (P = 0.001), compared with OVX2 noexercised group. MICT was superior to HIIT in reducing serum asprosin, TNF-a, TG, LDL (P = 0.001), insulin, fasting blood glucose, HOMA-IR, and QUEKI index (P = 0.001), but an increase in the liver AMPK, and p-AMPK (P = 0.001). Although after two months of de-training almost all indices returned to the pre exercise values (P < 0.05). The findings suggest that MICT effectively alleviates MetS induced by menopause, at least partly through the activation of liver signaling of P-AMPK and the reduction of asprosin and TNF-α. These results have practical implications for the development of exercise interventions targeting MetS in menopausal individuals, emphasizing the potential benefits of MICT in mitigating MetS-related complications.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Exercise Interventions for Psychotic Disorders: The Impact of Exercise Intensity, Mindfulness Components, and Other Moderators on Symptoms, Functioning, and Cardiometabolic Health

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS

Exercise therapy has been shown to be an effective complementary treatment for patients with psychotic disorders. However, the specific impacts of different training modalities remain poorly understood. This article aims to quantitatively review the moderating influence of different exercise modalities, hypothesizing that higher exercise intensity as well as utilization of mindfulness-based exercise (MBE) components, will improve intervention outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were searched from 2010 to March 2022 for randomized controlled trials investigating exercise interventions in patients with psychotic disorders (preregistration: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/J8QNS). Outcomes considered were positive/negative symptoms, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) General Psychopathology/Total scores, depressive symptoms, psychosocial functioning, quality of life, cardiorespiratory fitness, and body mass index. Separate meta-analyses, including moderator analyses, were performed to evaluate the moderating influence of different training modalities.

STUDY RESULTS

Of 6653 studies, 40 (n = 2111 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. The effects of moderate-intensity exercise exceed low-intensity approaches for PANSS Total scores (P = .02) and depressive symptoms (P = .04). The presence of MBE components was associated with improvements in positive symptoms (P = .04) and PANSS General Psychopathology subscores (P = .04) but also with higher error and between-study heterogeneity. Our analysis also shows improved intervention effects on depression in younger patients (P = .012) and improved psychosocial functioning scores following more frequent sessions (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

A minimum of moderate intensity should be considered. More frequent training sessions per week also seem to be beneficial. While adding mindfulness elements is promising, it increases heterogeneity and requires caution in terms of generalization.

Lung molecular and histological changes in type 2 diabetic rats and its improvement by high-intensity interval training

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) leads to serious respiratory problems. This study investigated the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on T2D-induced lung injuries at histopathological and molecular levels.

METHODS

Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into control (CTL), Diabetes (Db), exercise (Ex), and Diabetes + exercise (Db + Ex) groups. T2D was induced by a high-fat diet plus (35 mg/kg) of streptozotocin (STZ) administration. Rats in Ex and Db + Ex performed HIIT for eight weeks. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), Interleukin 10 (IL-10), BAX, Bcl2, Lecithin, Sphingomyelin (SPM) and Surfactant protein D (SPD) levels were measured in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels were measured in lung tissue. Lung histopathological alterations were assessed by using H&E and trichrome mason staining.

RESULTS

Diabetes was significantly associated with imbalance in pro/anti-inflammatory, pro/anti-apoptosis and redox systems, and reduced the SPD, lecithin sphingomyelin and alveolar number. Performing HIIT by diabetic animals increased Bcl2 (P < 0.05) and IL10 (P < 0.01) levels as well as surfactants components and TAC (P < 0.05) but decreased fasting blood glucose (P < 0.001), TNFα (P < 0.05), BAX (P < 0.05) and BAX/Bcl2 (P < 0.001) levels as well as MDA (P < 0.01) and MDA/TAC (P < 0.01) compared to the diabetic group. Furthermore, lung injury and fibrosis scores were increased by T2D and recovered in presence of HIIT.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that the attenuating effect of HIIT on diabetic lung injury mediated by reducing blood sugar, inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis as well as improving pulmonary surfactants components.

Football training as a non-pharmacological treatment of the global aging population-A topical review

In the present topical mini-review, the beneficial impact of small-sided game football training for the increasing elderly global population is presented. As a multicomponent type of physical activity, football training executed on small pitched with 4-6 players in each team is targeting a myriad of physiological systems and causes positive adaptations of relevance for several non-communicable diseases, of which the incidence increases with advancing age. There is strong scientific evidence that this type of football training promotes cardiovascular, metabolic and musculo-skeletal health in elderly individuals. These positive adaptations can prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, sarcopenia and osteoporosis, and lower the risk of falls. Also, football training has been proven an efficient part of the treatment of several patient groups including men with prostate cancer and women after breast cancer. Finally, regular football training has an anti-inflammatory effect and may slow the biological aging. Overall, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that recreational football training can promote health in the elderly.

The impact of high-intensity interval training on vascular function in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) compared with moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) or with no exercise (CON) on vascular function in adults who were free of cardiometabolic diseases and those with cardiometabolic diseases.

METHODS

A search across three electronic databases including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science was conducted through February 2022 to identify the randomized trials evaluating HIIT vs. MICT and/or CON on vascular function as measured using brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in adults. Separate analyses were conducted for HIIT vs. MICT and/or CON to calculate weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) using random or fixed models.

RESULTS

A total of 36 studies involving 1,437 participants who were either free of cardiometabolic diseases or had cardiometabolic diseases were included in the meta-analysis. HIIT effectively increased FMD when compared with MICT [1.59% (95% CI 0.87-2.31), p = 0.001] or CON [3.80% (95% CI 2.58-5.01), p = 0.001]. Subgroup analysis showed that HIIT increased FMD in participants with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, but not in participants who were free of cardiometabolic diseases. In addition, HIIT effectively increased FMD regardless of age and body mass index.

CONCLUSION

We confirm that HIIT is effective for improving vascular function in individuals with metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases and has a superior effect compared to MICT, demonstrating time efficiency.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero], identifier [CRD42022320863].

Effects of a 16-week physical training on clinical outcomes in patients with hypertension and chronic kidney disease: NEPHROS post-trial follow-up

The NEPHROS is a randomized controlled trial which applied a 16-week aerobic and resistance training to patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and high blood pressure. This report describes a long-term post-trial follow-up, comparing survival, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) change between the intervention and control groups according to in-trial cardiovascular risk factors. Three years after the original trial, NEPHROS participants were re-evaluated. Cox proportional hazards model was used to compare survival time and linear regression for changes in GFR and physical and mental HRQoL summary scores between intervention and control groups according to age, sex, and in-trial GFR, C-reactive protein, glucose, lipids, ankle-brachial index (ABI), functional capacity, and blood pressure. Of the 150 participants of NEPHROS, 128 were included in the long-term analysis. The previous exercise training had no effects on survival, GFR, or HRQoL. Baseline in-trial GFR (HR = 0.95, 95%CI: 0.92; 0.98) and ABI (HR = 0.03, 95%CI: 0.002; 0.43) were positive independent predictors for survival. Lower ABI (coefficient = 9.00, 95%CI: 0.43; 17.5) and higher systolic blood pressure (coefficient = -0.13, 95%CI: -0.24; -0.03) were independent predictors for GFR decline. A 16-week exercise program had no long-term effect on survival, quality of life, or glomerular filtration in patients with CKD stages 2 to 4. Lower GFR and ABI and higher systolic blood pressure were associated with poorer prognosis among CKD patients.

12 weeks high intensity interval training versus moderate intensity continuous training in chronic low back pain subjects: a randomised single-blinded feasibility study

BACKGROUND

Currently, very little is known about the effects of an endurance high intensity interval training (HIIT) in chronic low back pain patients. Therefore, the feasibility and safety of the HIIT must be assessed first before Currently, very little is known about the effects of an endurance high intensity interval training in chronic low back pain patients. Therefore, the feasibility and safety of the HIIT has to be assessed first before it can be integrated safely into research and daily practice it can be integrated safely into research and daily practice. This study aims to answers the question if high intensity interval training and moderate intensity continuous training (MICT) have comparable adherence and feasibility.

METHODS

Participants (age from 29 to 69 years) with non-specific chronic low back pain were recruited in this randomised, single-blinded, allocation concealed, feasibility study. The participants trained 30 min on a cycle ergometer for 12 weeks. One group had HIIT and the other MICT.

RESULTS

Of 45 screened subjects 30 participated. The adherence rate was 94% in the HIIT group (median 0.94, IQR 0.23) versus 96% in the MICT group (median 0.96, IQR 0.08), without between-group differences: estimated median of the difference of - 0,01 [95% CI, - 0.11 to 0.06; p = 0.76]. Similar results in enjoyability (median 3, IQR 1 vs median 2, IQR 1.8) and willingness to continue the training (median 3, IQR 1 vs median 3, IQR 0.4). Both groups improved in pain and disability, without between-group differences in pain [median of the difference, 0.5; 95% CI, - 1 to 2; p = 0.95] nor in disability [median of the difference, 1.78; 95% CI, - 6.44 to 9.56; p = 0.64].

CONCLUSION

There were no differences in adherence rates. HIIT is as feasible as MICT in non-specific chronic low back pain and can be used in future larger trials to deepen the knowledge about HIIT in this specific population.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04055545 . Registered 13 August 2019.

Exercise Training Protocols to Improve Obesity, Glucose Homeostasis, and Subclinical Inflammation

The global pandemics of obesity and sedentarism are associated with poor quality of life and increased risks for development of inflammatory chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Physical activity is considered as an antidote to counteract the development of chronic sterile inflammatory diseases. Thus, we review the most promising exercise training protocols for promoting weight loss, improving glucose homeostasis, and reducing inflammation. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of moderate-intensity continuous aerobic training, high-intensity aerobic training, and combined (aerobic + resistance) training. Our aim with this chapter is to provide evidence and guidance for choosing the most appropriate protocols of exercise training according to the goals of the patient.

Regular, Intense Exercise Training as a Healthy Aging Lifestyle Strategy: Preventing DNA Damage, Telomere Shortening and Adverse DNA Methylation Changes Over a Lifetime

Exercise training is one of the few therapeutic interventions that improves health span by delaying the onset of age-related diseases and preventing early death. The length of telomeres, the 5'-TTAGGG n -3' tandem repeats at the ends of mammalian chromosomes, is one of the main indicators of biological age. Telomeres undergo shortening with each cellular division. This subsequently leads to alterations in the expression of several genes that encode vital proteins with critical functions in many tissues throughout the body, and ultimately impacts cardiovascular, immune and muscle physiology. The sub-telomeric DNA is comprised of heavily methylated, heterochromatin. Methylation and histone acetylation are two of the most well-studied examples of the epigenetic modifications that occur on histone proteins. DNA methylation is the type of epigenetic modification that alters gene expression without modifying gene sequence. Although diet, genetic predisposition and a healthy lifestyle seem to alter DNA methylation and telomere length (TL), recent evidence suggests that training status or physical fitness are some of the major factors that control DNA structural modifications. In fact, TL is positively associated with cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity level (sedentary, active, moderately trained, or elite) and training intensity, but is shorter in over-trained athletes. Similarly, somatic cells are vulnerable to exercise-induced epigenetic modification, including DNA methylation. Exercise-training load, however, depends on intensity and volume (duration and frequency). Training load-dependent responses in genomic profiles could underpin the discordant physiological and physical responses to exercise. In the current review, we will discuss the role of various forms of exercise training in the regulation of DNA damage, TL and DNA methylation status in humans, to provide an update on the influence exercise training has on biological aging.

Toward a neuroprotective shift: Eight weeks of high intensity interval training reduces the neurotoxic kynurenine activity concurrently to impulsivity in emotionally impulsive humans - A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Previous findings suggest that impulsivity is related to chronic low-grade inflammation. Inflammation is known to trigger the kynurenine pathway to a pathological level in various impulsivity-related disorders. Nonetheless, murine models and recent human studies have shown that physical exercise, in particular High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), could counterbalance the negative effects of inflammation on the kynurenine pathway.

AIM

This study evaluates the effects of eight weeks of HIIT versus an active control group on impulsivity levels and accompanying alterations of inflammatory-mediated changes of the kynurenine pathway in a sample of emotionally impulsive humans.

METHODS

Participants were randomly allocated to either HIIT or stretching conditions (three trainings per week for eight weeks). Fitness level was evaluated via VO₂peak values at the beginning at end of the intervention. Kynurenine metabolites, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and impulsivity levels were evaluated at T0, T4, and T8 weeks. Statistical analyses were performed using mixed models.

RESULTS

Fifty-three participants were included in the modified Intention To Treat analysis (45 finished the intervention). The HIIT group (n = 28) largely increased the aerobic fitness of its participants and produced physiological changes while the stretching group (n = 25) did not. HIIT reduced interleukin 6 levels (small to moderate interaction) and reduced the activity of the neurotoxic branch of the kynurenine pathway (small to moderate interaction for KYNA/QA and KYN/QA) after eight weeks of training while the active control did not change. Both interventions were effective to decrease emotion-related impulsivity, however only the HIIT group decreased participants' emotion-unrelated levels. Changes in emotion-related and -unrelated impulsivity were moderately correlated to changes in KYNA/KYN.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that HIIT was able to switch the kynurenine pathway from its neurotoxic branch to its neuroprotective one. This shift was associated with a decrease in impulsivity. Based on these findings, future work may consider investigating more intensively the effect of HIIT on impulsivity-related disorders.

Two Weekly Sessions of High-Intensity Interval Training Improve Metabolic Syndrome and Hypertriglyceridemic Waist Phenotype in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Exercise training provides physiological benefits for maintaining good health. A common exercise strategy is high-intensity interval training (HIIT). HIIT may alleviate metabolic syndrome (MetS) and hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype, but remains largely unstudied in ageing participants. The aim of this research was to investigate the impact of 2 weekly HIIT sessions on MetS markers and HTGW-related factors in older adults. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 140 older men and women were randomized into two groups, the experimental group (EG), and the control group (CG). The EG performed 2 weekly sessions of HIIT during 12 weeks. HIIT sessions consisted of 40 min treadmill running/walking: a 10 min warm-up at 50%-60% of maximum heart rate (HR_max), followed by 10 sets of 1 min bouts at 85%-90% of HR_max interspersed with 1 min walking at self-selected pace (totaling 20 min), and 10 min cool-down walking at self-selected pace. The CG did not perform any type of intense exercise during the intervention period. Results: Participants in the EG of both sexes decreased MetS, HTGW, blood pressure, cholesterol, and glycemia (P < 0.05). After training, the number of hypertensive men decreased by 100% and women by 70%. There was a 75% reduction in women with diabetes, a 100% reduction in MetS indicators and over 80% reduction in HTGW in participants of both sexes. Conclusion: Two weekly sessions of HIIT proved to be feasible and effective to induce clinically relevant improvements in MetS and HTGW indicators.

HIIT is superior than MICT on cardiometabolic health during training and detraining

PURPOSE

This study investigated the cardiometabolic health of overweight/obese untrained individuals in response to 8 weeks of HIIT and MICT using a field approach, and to 4 weeks of training cessation (TC).

METHODS

Twenty-two subjects performed 8 weeks of moderate intensity continuous training (MICT-n = 11) or high-intensity interval training (HIIT-n = 11) (outdoor running), followed by 4 weeks of TC. Cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, arterial blood pressure, glucose metabolism and blood lipids were measured pre-training (PRE), post-training (POST) and TC.

RESULTS

HIIT improved eight indicators of cardiometabolic health ([Formula: see text], BMI, body fat, visceral fat, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, fasting glucose and triglycerides-p  < 0.05) while MICT only three ([Formula: see text], BMI, and visceral fat-p  < 0.05). After 4 weeks of TC, four positive adaptations from HIIT were negatively affected ( [Formula: see text], visceral fat, systolic blood pressure and total cholesterol-p  < 0.05) and three in the MICT group ([Formula: see text], BMI and visceral fat, p  < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Eight weeks of HIIT performed in a real-world setting promoted a greater number of positive adaptations in cardiometabolic health of individuals with overweight/obese compared to MICT. Most of the positive effects of the HIIT protocol were also found to be longer lasting and maintained after the suspension of high-intensity interval running for 4 weeks. Conversely, all positive effects of MICT protocols were reversed after TC.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Exercise on Metabolic Syndrome Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Increments in inflammatory indicators and low levels of physical activity are correlated to the expansion of the metabolic syndrome (MetS).

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to establish if exercise training ameliorates inflammatory status in MetS patients.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, CINAHL, and Medline, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases and reference lists of included studies were searched.

STUDY SELECTION

Twenty randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of exercise-training impact on inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL) 6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-18) with concurrent control groups were included in this analysis.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated an overall significant decrease in serum levels of TNF-α (mean difference (MD): -1.21 pg/ml; 95% confidence interval (CI): -1.77, -0.66), CRP (MD: -0.52 mg/l; 95% CI: -0.79, -0.25), IL-8 (MD: -1.31 pg/ml; 95% CI: -2.57, -0.06), and a significant increase in IL-10 (MD: 0.48 pg/ml; 95% CI: 0.10, 0.86). But exercise training did not change the level of IL-6 (MD: -0.69 pg/ml; 95% CI: -1.53, 0.14) and IL-18 (MD: -53.01 pg/ml; 95% CI: -166.64, 60.62).

CONCLUSION

Exercise training improves TNF-α, CRP, IL-8, and IL-10 levels in patients with MetS. For some variables, isolated aerobic exercise, and combined aerobic and resistance exercise appears to be optimal. Future research is needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying exercise training's effect on this population's inflammatory markers. More studies are required to confirm these findings.

Effect of high intensity interval training on body composition in women before and after menopause: a meta-analysis

NEW FINDINGS

What is the topic of this review? A meta-analysis of the efficacy of high intensity interval training (HIIT) in reducing weight, total fat mass (FM) and (intra)-abdominal FM in normal-weight and overweight/obese women before and after menopause. What advances does it highlight? HIIT programmes in women significantly decrease body weight and total and abdominal FM. Their effects are more evident in pre- than in postmenopausal women. Cycling HIIT seems more effective than running, especially in postmenopausal women, and training interventions longer than 8 weeks comprising three sessions a week should be promoted.

ABSTRACT

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a stimulating modality for reducing body weight and adipose tissue. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of HIIT in reducing weight, total fat mass (FM) and (intra)-abdominal FM in normal-weight and overweight/obese women before and after menopause. A structured electronic search was performed to find all publications relevant to our review. Stratified analyses were made of hormonal status (pre- vs. postmenopausal state), weight, HIIT modalities (cycling vs. running), programme duration (< or ≥8 weeks) and the methods used to measure body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry vs. computed tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging and others). A total of 38 studies involving 959 subjects were included. Our meta-analysis showed that overall HIIT programmes significantly decrease weight, total and abdominal FM in women. Both normal weight and overweight/obese women lost total FM after HIIT protocols whereas HIIT was only effective in decreasing abdominal FM in women with excess adiposity. When pre- and postmenopausal women were considered separately, the effect of HIIT on weight, total and abdominal FM were only significant before menopause. Cycling HIIT seemed more effective than running, especially in postmenopausal women, and training interventions longer than 8 weeks comprising three sessions were more efficient. HIIT is a successful strategy to lose weight and FM in normal weight and overweight/obese women. However, further studies are still needed to draw meaningful conclusions about the real effectiveness of HIIT protocols in postmenopausal women.

High-intensity interval training irrespective of its intensity improves markers of blood fluidity in hypertensive patients

Aim: The present study examined and compared the effects of two different HIIT (High-intensity interval training) protocols on markers of blood fluidity in hypertensive patients.Methods: Thirty hypertensive (stage 1, systolic BP >140 and diastolic BP>90 mmHg) patients (age, 47.96 ± 3.20 yrs), were randomly allocated to short-duration HIIT (SDHIIT, n = 10), long-duration HIIT (LDHIIT, n = 10), and control (n = 10) groups. After 2 weeks of continuous mild training, patients in SDHIIT group performed 8 weeks of HIIT included 27 min HIIT that encompassed 27 repetitions of 30 s activity at 80%-100% of VO₂peak interspersed by 30 s passive/active (10%-20% of VO₂peak) recovery, while, patients in LDHIIT group performed 8 weeks of HIIT (32 min per session) included 4 repetitions of 4 min activity at 75%-90% of VO₂peak interspersed by 4 min passive/active (15%-30% of VO₂peak) recovery. Two blood samples were taken before and after training and were analyzed for hemorheological variables.Results: Significant (P < .05) reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP), blood and plasma viscosity, fibrinogen concentration and red blood cell (RBC) aggregation (8-12%) were found following two training protocols (P < .05), though, the differences between adaptations were not statistically significant (P > .05). In addition, HIIT protocols increased RBC deformability significantly (P < .05), with no significant differences being observed between two protocols.Conclusion: It is concluded that HIIT training reduces SBP and markers of blood fluidity in patients with stage 1 hypertension irrespective of the HIIT intensity and duration. Therefore, this type of exercise training could be prescribed for improving the blood fluidity markers in hypertensive patients.

Impact of high-intensity interval training and sprint interval training on peripheral markers of glycemic control in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes

Glycemic control is essential to reduce the risk of complications associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Aerobic and resistance exercise performed alone or in combination improve glycemic control in both conditions. However, perceived lack of time and commitment are considered principal barriers to performing exercise regularly. High intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training (SIT) can be performed in a fraction of the time required for continuous aerobic exercise. A substantial scientific evidence indicates that HIIT/SIT improve glycemic control to a similar or greater extent than aerobic exercise in populations without MetS or T2D. Likewise, growing evidence suggest that HIIT/SIT improve the glycemic control during MetS and T2D. The aim of this review is to discuss the effects of interval training protocols on peripheral markers of glucose metabolism in patients with MetS and T2D.

Effects of functional training and 2 interdisciplinary interventions on maximal oxygen uptake and weight loss of women with obesity: a randomized clinical trial

Our aim was to analyze and compare functional training, interdisciplinary therapy, and interdisciplinary education on cardiorespiratory fitness (CF) and anthropometric characteristics of women with obesity. Forty-four women (age = 39.7 ± 5.9 years, body mass index (BMI) = 35.5 ± 2.8 kg/m²) completed 30 weeks of intervention randomly assigned to 3 groups: functional training (FT) (n = 14), interdisciplinary therapy (IT) (n = 19), and interdisciplinary education (IE) (n = 11). The FT group participated in the training program (3/week), the IT group received the same training intervention plus nutrition (1/week) and psychology advice (1/week) and physical therapy (1/week). The IE group participated in interdisciplinary lectures on topics related to health promotion (1/month). CF (ergospirometry), anthropometry, and body composition (electrical bioimpedance) were measured pre-intervention (Pre) and post-intervention (Post). CF increased (p ≤ 0.05) significantly (Pre vs. Post) in the FT (7.5%) and IT (10.8%) groups, but not in the IE group (1.8%). Body mass (BM), BMI, relative fat mass, and waist circumference significantly (p ≤ 0.05) decreased (Pre vs. Post) in IT (-4.4%, -4.4%, -2.3%, and -5.1%, respectively). The IE group showed a significant decrease in BM (-3.7%), BMI (-3.7%), and waist circumference (-3.5%), whereas the FT group promoted significant decrease in waist circumference (-3.4%). In conclusion, functional training increased CF but only interdisciplinary interventions improved the anthropometric profile of women with obesity. Novelty Interdisciplinary therapy provided more comprehensive adaptations in women with obesity, including morphological variables and CF. Functional training increased CF but reduced only abdominal obesity. Interdisciplinary education provided benefits on morphological variables, but it does not increase CF.

Effect of Different Volumes of Interval Training and Continuous Exercise on Interleukin-22 in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Trial

INTRODUCTION

IL-22 may have a role in the alleviation of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) via protection of pancreatic beta and endothelial cells from oxidative and lipid-induced damage. We aimed to investigate the effects of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and different volumes of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on changes in circulating IL-22.

METHODS

This was a sub-study of the "Exercise in the prevention of Metabolic Syndrome" (EX-MET) a multi-center, randomized trial. This study used data collected at the Brisbane site. Thirty-nine individuals with MetS were randomized to one of three 16-wk interventions: 1) MICT (n=10, 30min at 60-70% HR peak, 5x/wk); 2) 4HIIT (n=13, 4x4min at 85-95% HR peak, interspersed with 3min of active recovery at 50-70% HR peak, 3x/wk); or 3) 1HIIT (n=16, 1x4min at 85-95% HR peak, 3x/wk). Serum IL-22 concentration was measured following a 12-hr fast via an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, before and after the intervention. MetS severity, insulin resistance (IR), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) were also measured via MetS z-score, HOMA-IR, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and indirect calorimetry (maximal exercise test), respectively.

RESULTS

The median (IQR) IL-22% changes from pre- to post-intervention in the MICT, 4HIIT, and 1HIIT groups were -17% (-43.0% to 31.3%), +16.5% (-18.9% to 154.9%), and +15.9% (-28.7% to 46.1%), respectively. Although there were no significant between-group differences in IL-22 concentration change, there was a medium-to-large group × time interaction effect [F(2,35)=2.08, p=0.14, η²=0.14].

CONCLUSION

Although there was no statistically significant between-group difference in IL-22 change, the study suggests that different exercise intensities may have opposing effects on IL-22 concentration in individuals with MetS.

Effect of 8-Week Interval Training on Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B Expression in Gastrocnemius Muscle and Insulin Resistance in Rats with Type 2 Diabetes

Background: Insulin resistance induced by genetic and metabolic disorders is the main cause of the prevalence or severity of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) plays a key role in regulating glucose homeostasis as a negative regulator of insulin signaling pathway. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effect of interval training on PTP1B expression in gastrocnemius muscle and insulin resistance in male rats with T2D. Methods: T2D was induced by high fat diet (HFD) and intraperitoneal injection of STZ in 14 male Wistar rats and then they were divided randomly into exercise (n=7) or control (n=7) groups. Exercise rats completed an 8 weeks interval training (5 days/week) and control rats remained without training. Fasting glucose, serum insulin, and PTP1B expression in gastrocnemius muscle were measured 48 hours after the last exercise session. Insulin resistance was assessed using homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) formula based on fasting insulin and glucose levels. An independent t test was used to compare each parameter between 2 groups. A P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Interval training resulted in a significant decrease in fasting glucose level (P<0.0001) and insulin resistance (P=0.018) as well as an increase in serum insulin level (P<0.0001). PTP1B expression in gastrocnemius muscle decreased significantly compared with control rats (P=0.003) Conclusion: Interval training can improve insulin resistance in T2D rats. This improvement may be attributed to the decrease in PTP1B expression in gastrocnemius muscle by interval training.

Two Weeks of High-Intensity Interval Training in Combination With a Non-thermal Diffuse Ultrasound Device Improves Lipid Profile and Reduces Body Fat Percentage in Overweight Women

This study evaluated the effectiveness of an innovative strategy which combined low-frequency ultra sound (LOFU) with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to improve physical fitness and promote body fat loss in overweight sedentary women. A placebo controlled, parallel group randomized experimental design was used to investigate the efficacy of a 2-week combined LOFU and HIIT program (3 sessions per week). Participants were allocated into either the Experimental HIIT group (HIIT_EXP, n = 10) or Placebo HIIT group (HIIT_PLA, n = 10). Baseline exercise testing (maximal oxygen uptake, lower limb strength and substrate oxidation test), dietary assessment, anthropometric measures and blood sampling were completed in week 1 and repeated in week 4 to determine changes following the program (Post-HIIT). During each training session, the HIIT_EXP and HIIT_PLA groups wore a non-thermal diffuse ultrasound belt. However, the belt was only switched on for the HIIT_EXP group. Delta change scores were calculated for body weight, body fat percentage (Fat%), muscle mass, V.O_2max, hip and waist circumferences, and all lipid variables from Baseline to Post-HIIT. Statistical analysis was completed using a repeated-measures factorial analysis of variance by group (HIIT_PLA and HIIT_EXP) and time (Baseline and Post-HIIT). Results showed significant improvements in maximal oxygen uptake (HIIT_EXP; Baseline 24.7 ± 5.4 mL kg^–1 min^–1, Post-HIIT 28.1 ± 5.5 mL kg^–1 min^–1 and HIIT_PLA; Baseline 28.4 ± 5.9 mL kg^–1 min^–1, Post-HIIT 31.4 ± 5.5 mL kg^–1 min^–1) for both groups. Significant decreases in Fat% (HIIT_EXP; Baseline 32.7 ± 3.2%, Post-HIIT 28.9 ± 3.5% and HIIT_PLA; Baseline 28.9 ± 3.5%, Post-HIIT 28.9 ± 3.4% kg), waist circumference (HIIT_EXP; Baseline 95.8 ± 9.6 cm, Post-HIIT 89.3 ± 8.9 cm and HIIT_PLA; Baseline 104.3 ± 3.5 cm, Post-HIIT 103.6 ± 3.4 cm) and triglycerides (HIIT_EXP; −29.2%, HIIT_PLA; −6.7%) were observed in the HIIT_EXP group only. These results show that HIIT combined with LOFU was an effective intervention to improve body composition, lipid profile, and fitness. This combined strategy allowed overweight, sedentary women to achieve positive health outcomes in as little as 2 weeks.

Acute effect of high-intensity interval training on metabolic and inflammatory markers in obese and overweight adolescents: Pilot study

It is still unclear whether a high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) protocol is effective for promoting anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic responses. The objective of this study was to analyze the acute effects of HIIE on inflammatory and metabolic responses in obese and overweight girls and boys. Initially, the body composition of 19 sedentary volunteers was evaluated. The participants completed an interval experimental run on a treadmill (2:1 min at 95% maximum velocity, totaling ~3 km) and blood samples were collected at rest and immediately after the exercise protocol. Serum was analyzed for interleukins 6 and 10 (IL-6 and IL-10), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cortisol, glucose, triacylglycerol (TG), non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and the lipoprotein profile. Under baseline conditions, the groups of boys and girls exhibited differences in the anthropometry measures for fat-free mass ( p = 0.011), gynoid fat ( p = 0.002), visceral fat ( p = 0.004), and glucose ( p = 0.031). After the exercise session, cholesterol, glucose, NEFA, PAI-1, IL-10, and TNF-α did not demonstrate effects for time, group, or interaction under the different conditions. Cortisol (F = 9.018; p = 0.008; partial η2 = 0.347), TG (F = 25.189; p < 0.0001; partial η2 = 0.597), and IL-6 levels (F = 6.543; p = 0.020; partial η2 = 0.278) showed an effect for time. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that HIIE promoted an immune-endocrine response, increasing cortisol and IL-6 levels immediately after the exercise protocol in overweight and obese girls.

Long-term Effects of Moderate versus High Durations of Aerobic Exercise on Biomarkers of Breast Cancer Risk: Follow-up to a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

The optimal lifestyle for breast cancer prevention over the long term is unclear. We aimed to determine whether or not the amount of exercise prescribed in a year-long exercise intervention influences breast cancer biomarker levels 1 year later.

METHODS

We conducted a 24-month follow-up study (2012-2014) to the Breast Cancer and Exercise Trial in Alberta (BETA), a 12-month, two-armed (1:1), two-center randomized controlled trial of exercise in 400 cancer-free, postmenopausal women. The exercise prescription was moderate-vigorous aerobic exercise, 5 days/week (3 days/week supervised) for 30 minutes/session (MODERATE) or 60 minutes/session (HIGH). Participants were asked not to change their usual diet. We used linear mixed models to compare biomarker concentrations (C-reactive protein, insulin, glucose, HOMA-IR, estrone, sex hormone binding globulin, total estradiol, and free estradiol) over time (0, 12, and 24 months) by group (MODERATE, HIGH), using group-time interactions.

RESULTS

After 12 months of no intervention, 24-month fasting blood samples were available for 84.0% and 82.5% of MODERATE and HIGH groups, respectively (n = 333/400). We found no evidence that 0 to 24- or 12 to 24-month biomarker changes differed significantly between randomized groups (HIGH:MODERATE ratio of mean biomarker change ranged from 0.97 to 1.06, P values >0.05 for all). We found more favorable biomarker profiles among participants who experienced greater than the median fat loss during the trial.

CONCLUSIONS

Prescribing aerobic exercise for 300 versus 150 minutes/week for 12 months to inactive, postmenopausal women had no effects on longer-term biomarkers.

IMPACT

Exercise may lead to larger improvements in breast cancer biomarkers after intervention among women who also experience fat loss with exercise.

High-intensity interval training improves inflammatory and adipokine profiles in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome

This study investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on systemic levels of inflammatory and hormonal markers in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome (MS). Fifteen postmenopausal women with MS completed the training on treadmills. Functional, body composition parameters, maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max), and lipid profile were assessed before and after HIIT. Serum or plasma levels of cytokines and hormonal markers were measured along the intervention. The analysis of messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of these cytokines was performed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). VO₂max and some anthropometric parameters were improved after HIIT, while decreased levels of proinflammatory markers and increased levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) were also found. Adipokines were also modulated after 12 weeks or training. The mRNA expression of the studied genes was unchanged after HIIT. In conclusion, HIIT benefits inflammatory and hormonal axis on serum or plasma samples, without changes on PBMC of postmenopausal MS patients.

Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training on Total, Abdominal and Visceral Fat Mass: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is promoted as a time-efficient strategy to improve body composition.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of HIIT in reducing total, abdominal, and visceral fat mass in normal-weight and overweight/obese adults.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched to identify all related articles on HIIT and fat mass. Stratified analysis was performed using the nature of HIIT (cycling versus running, target intensity), sex and/or body weight, and the methods of measuring body composition. Heterogeneity was also determined RESULTS: A total of 39 studies involving 617 subjects were included (mean age 38.8 years ± 14.4, 52% females). HIIT significantly reduced total (p = 0.003), abdominal (p = 0.007), and visceral (p = 0.018) fat mass, with no differences between the sexes. A comparison showed that running was more effective than cycling in reducing total and visceral fat mass. High-intensity (above 90% peak heart rate) training was more successful in reducing whole body adiposity, while lower intensities had a greater effect on changes in abdominal and visceral fat mass. Our analysis also indicated that only computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging showed significant abdominal and/or visceral fat-mass loss after HIIT interventions.

CONCLUSION

HIIT is a time-efficient strategy to decrease fat-mass deposits, including those of abdominal and visceral fat mass. There was some evidence of the greater effectiveness of HIIT running versus cycling, but owing to the wide variety of protocols used and the lack of full details about cycling training, further comparisons need to be made. Large, multicenter, prospective studies are required to establish the best HIIT protocols for reducing fat mass according to subject characteristics.

Highly favorable physiological responses to concurrent resistance and high-intensity interval training during chemotherapy: the OptiTrain breast cancer trial

Background

Advanced therapeutic strategies are often accompanied by significant adverse effects, which warrant equally progressive countermeasures. Physical exercise has proven an effective intervention to improve physical function and reduce fatigue in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in this population are not well established although HIIT has proven effective in other clinical populations. The aim of the OptiTrain trial was to examine the effects of concurrent resistance and high-intensity interval training (RT-HIIT) or concurrent moderate-intensity aerobic and high-intensity interval training (AT-HIIT), to usual care (UC) on pain sensitivity and physiological outcomes in patients with breast cancer during chemotherapy.

Methods

Two hundred and forty women were randomized to 16 weeks of RT-HIIT, AT-HIIT, or UC. Outcomes: cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, body mass, hemoglobin levels, and pressure-pain threshold.

Results

Pre- to post-intervention, RT-HIIT (ES = 0.41) and AT-HIIT (ES = 0.42) prevented the reduced cardiorespiratory fitness found with UC. Handgrip strength (surgery side: RT-HIIT vs. UC: ES = 0.41, RT-HIIT vs. AT-HIIT: ES = 0.28; non-surgery side: RT-HIIT vs. UC: ES = 0.35, RT-HIIT vs. AT-HIIT: ES = 0.22) and lower-limb muscle strength (RT-HIIT vs. UC: ES = 0.66, RT-HIIT vs. AT-HIIT: ES = 0.23) were significantly improved in the RT-HIIT. Increases in body mass were smaller in RT-HIIT (ES = − 0.16) and AT-HIIT (ES = − 0.16) versus UC. RT-HIIT reported higher pressure-pain thresholds than UC (trapezius: ES = 0.46, gluteus: ES = 0.53) and AT-HIIT (trapezius: ES = 0.30).

Conclusion

Sixteen weeks of RT-HIIT significantly improved muscle strength and reduced pain sensitivity. Both exercise programs were well tolerated and were equally efficient in preventing increases in body mass and in preventing declines in cardiorespiratory fitness. These results highlight the importance of implementing a combination of resistance and high-intensity interval training during chemotherapy for women with breast cancer.

Effects of recreational football on women's fitness and health: adaptations and mechanisms

The review describes the fitness and health effects of recreational football in women aged 18-65 years. The review documents that 2 × 1 h of recreational football training for 12-16 weeks causes marked improvements in maximal oxygen uptake (5-15%) and myocardial function in women. Moreover, mean arterial blood pressure was shown to decrease by 2-5 mmHg in normotensive women and 6-8 mmHg in hypertensive women. This review also show that short-term (< 4 months) and medium-term (4-16 months) recreational football training has major beneficial impact on metabolic health profile in women, with fat losses of 1-3 kg and improvements in blood lipid profile. Lastly, 2 × 1 h per week of recreational football training for women elevates lower extremity bone mineralisation by 1-5% and whole-body bone mineralization by 1-2% within 4-12-month interventions. These training adaptations are related to the high heart rates, high number of fast runs, and multiple changes of direction and speed occurring during recreational football training for untrained women. In conclusion, regular small-sided football training for women is an intense and versatile type of training that combines elements of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), endurance training and strength training, thereby providing optimal stimuli for cardiovascular, metabolic and musculoskeletal fitness. Recreational football, therefore, seems to be an effective tool for prevention and treatment of lifestyle diseases in young and middle-aged women, including hypertension, type 2 diabetes and osteopenia. Future research should elucidate effects of football training for elderly women, and as treatment and rehabilitation of breast cancer patients and other women patient groups.

Effects of high-intensity interval training and moderate-intensity continuous training on glycaemic control and skeletal muscle mitochondrial function in db/db mice

Physical activity is known as an effective strategy for prevention and treatment of Type 2 Diabetes. The aim of this work was to compare the effects of a traditional Moderate Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) with a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on glucose metabolism and mitochondrial function in diabetic mice. Diabetic db/db male mice (N = 25) aged 6 weeks were subdivided into MICT, HIIT or control (CON) group. Animals in the training groups ran on a treadmill 5 days/week during 10 weeks. MICT group ran for 80 min (0° slope) at 50-60% of maximal speed (Vmax) reached during an incremental test. HIIT group ran thirteen times 4 minutes (20° slope) at 85-90% of Vmax separated by 2-min-rest periods. HIIT lowered fasting glycaemia and HbA1c compared with CON group (p < 0.05). In all mitochondrial function markers assessed, no differences were noted between the three groups except for total amount of electron transport chain proteins, slightly increased in the HIIT group vs CON. Western blot analysis revealed a significant increase of muscle Glut4 content (about 2 fold) and higher insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation ratios in HIIT group. HIIT seems to improve glucose metabolism more efficiently than MICT in diabetic mice by mechanisms independent of mitochondrial adaptations.