Study: HIIT Improves Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Post-Stroke Patients
Fitness professionals can now consider HIIT as a viable, evidence-based option for enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness in clients recovering from strokes, according to recent findings
A recent study published in Stroke has revealed that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can significantly improve cardiorespiratory fitness in individuals recovering from a stroke. The research, led by a team from McMaster University, compares the effects of 12 weeks of short-interval HIIT with moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), demonstrating that HIIT offers notable benefits for stroke survivors.
Study Overview
The study involved 82 participants who were at least 6 months post-stroke. The participants, with a mean age of 64.9 years, were randomized into two groups: one undergoing HIIT and the other MICT. Over the course of 12 weeks, the HIIT group participated in sessions that included 10 intervals of 1 minute at 80%-100% heart rate reserve, followed by 1 minute at 30% heart rate reserve. The MICT group engaged in continuous exercise at 40%-60% heart rate reserve for 20 to 30 minutes per session.
The primary outcome measured was V̇O2peak, a key indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness. Secondary outcomes included cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure and waist-hip ratio, as well as mobility assessments like the 6-minute walk test and 10-meter gait speed.
The results showed that the HIIT group experienced significantly greater gains in V̇O2peak compared to the MICT group. Specifically, the HIIT participants saw an average increase of 3.52 mL/kg·min in V̇O2peak, compared to a 1.71 mL/kg·min increase in the MICT group. These findings were supported by statistical analyses, with the study noting a significant group-by-time interaction for V̇O2peak at 12 weeks (P=0.004).
The study also found that the participants adhered well to the training protocols, attending 82% of the prescribed sessions. Importantly, no adverse events were reported during the study period, suggesting that HIIT is a safe and effective alternative to MICT for improving cardiorespiratory fitness in post-stroke individuals.
Why This Matters for Fitness Professionals and Gym Owners
This study’s findings have significant implications for fitness professionals and gym owners, particularly those who work with older adults or individuals recovering from health challenges. HIIT has already gained popularity in the fitness industry for its time efficiency and effectiveness in improving cardiovascular health and promoting fat loss. Now, this research underscores its potential as a tool for rehabilitation after being cleared by a doctor, expanding the range of clients who can benefit from HIIT protocols.
For gym owners, incorporating HIIT-based programs tailored to specific populations, such as stroke survivors, can differentiate their services and attract a broader clientele. Given that HIIT was shown to improve cardiorespiratory fitness without adverse effects, it may offer a compelling option for facilities aiming to provide inclusive and diverse fitness options.
Fitness professionals can also take note of the study’s methodology, which utilized short-interval HIIT—a variation that is accessible even to those who may not be able to engage in longer, more intense sessions. This adaptability makes HIIT a versatile option for clients at various fitness levels and with different health needs.
The research led by Dr. Kevin Moncion and colleagues adds to the growing body of evidence supporting HIIT as a beneficial and safe exercise modality. By demonstrating its efficacy in improving cardiorespiratory fitness in post-stroke patients, this study highlights the broader applications of HIIT beyond the general fitness population.