Healthcare · 5 authors, 3 centres
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This 12-week randomized trial compared two low-volume high-intensity interval training (LOW-HIIT) prescriptions based on maximum heart rate (HRmax) versus lactate threshold (LT) in 58 patients with metabolic syndrome. Both protocols similarly improved cardiometabolic health and quality of life, suggesting LT-based training is a viable alternative when maximal exercise testing is not feasible.
Low-volume high-intensity interval training (LOW-HIIT) is a time-effective exercise approach for metabolic syndrome (MetS). Intensity is typically prescribed using maximum heart rate (HRmax), which requires maximal exertion testing that may not be feasible for all patients. This study aimed to compare the effects of HRmax- versus lactate threshold (LT)-based intensity prescriptions for LOW-HIIT on cardiometabolic health and quality of life (QoL). Methods: In a 12-week randomized controlled trial, 75 MetS patients were allocated to HIIT-HR (5x1 min at 80–95% HRmax), HIIT-LT (5x1 min at 95–105% LT), or a control group, all receiving nutritional counseling. The primary outcome was maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Key Results: Final analysis included 58 patients. Both HIIT groups showed similar, significant improvements versus controls in VO2max (+3.6 vs +3.7 mL/kg/min), systolic blood pressure (−11 vs −13 mmHg), HbA1c (−0.2% vs −0.3%), homeostasis model assessment index (−1.3 vs −1.0 units), MetS z-score (−1.9 vs −2.5 units), and QoL (EQ-VAS +10 vs +11 points). All groups lost weight (HIIT-HR: −3.9 kg; HIIT-LT: −5.6 kg; control: −2.6 kg). Limitations: All patients received nutritional counseling, which is a potential confounder, though intake did not differ between exercise groups. The study used a fixed 4 mmol/L LT, and results may not generalize to other clinical populations or non-clinical settings. Implications: For MetS patients unable or unwilling to undergo maximal exercise testing, an LT-based LOW-HIIT prescription provides a viable and effective alternative to traditional HRmax-based training.
