Benefits Of HIIT Exercise In COPD: Less Shortness of Breath and Better Fitness
Background
HIIT means High Intensity Interval Training. HIIT exercise in COPD is an alternative approach to training than the lower intensity, longer duration exertion used in many pulmonary rehabilitation programs. It is a popular type of a cardio work-out – could be walking on a treadmill, cycling on a stationary bike, using a stair climbing machine, rowing, jumping rope, etc. HIIT is an intense level of exertion for a short time period. One example involves a 2:1 ratio of walking fast on the tredmill for 30–40 seconds followed by 15–20 seconds of easy or slow walkingto recover.
You’ll work up a sweat fast, working at a very intense level and likely feel very short of breath. Then, you will back off for a slower recovery period. This process is repeated several times. HIIT exercise offers many advantages including a shorter work-out time, weight loss, build up of muscle, and boost your metabolism (how your body burns calories). Plus there’s a post-workout bonus: Your body will burn calories for about 2 hours after you exercise.
Seniors performing high intensity interval training (HIIT) walking outdoors
Study
Dr. Hongyan Wang and colleagues of the School of Nursing in Sichuan Nursing Vocational College, China, analyzed published studies on the effects and safety of HIIT for those with COPD. The findings were published on-line on January 28, 2023, in the journal Respiratory Medicine.
Results
A total of 20 randomized controlled trials involving 962 patients with COPD were included. Of these, 514 patients performed HIIT exercise. Meta-analysis showed that HIIT improved fitness as measured by peak oxygen consumption, increased peak ventilation (how much a person can breathe), and increased 6-minute walking distance. In addition, patients noted less shortness of breath with daily activities and had an improved quality of life.
Conclusions
HIIT increases exercise capacity, reduces shortness of breath, and improves quality of life in those with COPD.
My Comments
HIIT exercise in COPD is an alterntaive way to work-out compared with the lower intensity, longer duration exercise promoted in most pulmonary rehabiliation programs. Simply, HIIT is harder in intensity, but shorter in time. My experience is that some individuals with COPD are willing to try HIIT based on the reported benefits of such exercise, but it is not for everyone.
I encourage you to talk to your healht care professional or pulmonary rehabilitation specialist to find out if HIIT is an option for you.