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 45 min day⁻¹ for 6 months.

CONT maintained baseline physical activity and no changes in cardiovascular function or MetS factors were detected. In contrast, TRAIN increased cardiorespiratory fitness (14% in VO_2PEAK; 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 1500 ml min⁻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 ± 13 beats min⁻¹; P < 0.05), diastolic blood pressure (83 ± 8–75 ± 8 mmHg; 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 ± 2.4 bt min⁻¹ mmHg 10⁻³; 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.

NCT03019796.