Comparative Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training Versus Moderate-Intensity Exercise on Cardiac and Metabolic Outcomes in Chronic Heart Failure Patients

Abstract

Background: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a debilitating condition where cardiac rehabilitation plays a crucial role in improving patient outcomes. Comparing different training modalities may provide insights into optimizing exercise prescriptions for this population.

Objective: To evaluate the comparative effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) versus moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on cardiac and metabolic outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure.

Methods: In this controlled study, 40 patients with documented CHF were randomized into two groups: Group 1 (HIIT) and Group 2 (MICT). Each group consisted of 20 participants who engaged in their respective training protocols over a 12-week period. The HIIT protocol involved three weekly sessions incorporating intervals at 85-95% of peak heart rate, while MICT involved continuous exercise at 60-70% of peak heart rate. Baseline and post-intervention assessments included measures of physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health. Statistical analysis was performed to compare outcomes between groups.

Results: Baseline metrics were comparable between groups. By the 12-week follow-up, HIIT showed greater improvements in Physical Functioning (from 52 to 60), Role-Physical (from 43 to 67), Bodily Pain (from 49 to 78), and Mental Health (from 59 to 79) compared to MICT. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences favoring HIIT in General Health (p=0.024), Vitality (p=0.027), and Role-Emotional (p=0.012). The HIIT group also demonstrated significant improvements in Social Functioning and Bodily Pain, with p-values of 0.038 and 0.037, respectively.

Conclusion: HIIT is more effective than MICT in improving various health metrics in CHF patients, suggesting that incorporating HIIT into cardiac rehabilitation programs might enhance patient outcomes more significantly than traditional continuous moderate exercise.