Sportkardiologie / Sports Cardiology

Abstract

Introduction: Applicability and effectiveness of high-intensity interval training currently arediscussed and investigated as a possible addition to moderate continuous training (MCT) in cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Meanwhile, prospective multi-centre-RCTs and meta-analyses are also available for AIT/HIIT (aerobic interval training/ high-intensity interval training) in patients with CHD and CHF / HFrEF.Method: We conducted a selective literature search until December 2017. This was focussed on studies to evaluate high-intensity interval training modalities in CR both in general as in patients with CHD.Results: While early (and often small) studies and the following meta-analyses often showed highly significant positive results for high-intensity interval training in comparison to MCT with regards to the maximum oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and other clinically relevant parameters, current prospective multicentre RCTs and meta-analyses show no such significant advantages for high-intensity interval training. Total energy-expenditure (EE) appears to be more relevant for the benefits of such inventions independent of session duration, programme length and training intensity.Discussion: High-intensity interval training in CR is a safe form of training for CHD patients with preserved left ventricular function showing equivalent improvement of cardiovascular protection factors compared with MCT. It offers a more variable and slightly time saving training option, but requires more intense coaching for the individual patient. Sometimes interval trainingis not tolerated by CHD-patients. Nevertheless, there is still a need for research in a more precise application and its long-term effects. KEY WORDS: Cardiac Rehabilitation, Exercise, Endurance Training, Coronary Arterial Disease, High Intensity Interval Training