Effect of high-intensity interval training versus moderate-intensity continuous training on plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 in Type 2 diabetic women

Abstract

Introduction: Thrombotic events in Type-2 diabetes are influenced by elevated plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). This study compares the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on PAI-1 level in Type-2 diabetic women. Material and methods: Twenty-six women with Type-2 diabetes were recruited and assigned to two groups; of these, 18 completed the study: a HIIT group (n = 8, 42.1 ± 6.8 years, 33.1 ± 4.95 kg/m2) and a MICT group (n = 10, 41.1 ± 2.9 years, 35.2 ± 2.6 kg/m2). Outcome measures were PAI-1, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and body mass index (BMI). The HIIT group performed 4 × 4-min working phases at 85–90% of peak HR (heart rate), followed by 3-min active rest intervals. At 65–75% of peak HR, the MICT group exercised for 30 minutes. Both exercise interventions included a warm-up and a cool-down period and were performed on a treadmill for eight weeks. Results: The HIIT group showed significant reductions in PAI-1 (29.09 ± 2.67 vs. 37.42 ± 3.52 ng/mL, p < 0.001) and HBA1c (6.45 ± 0.50 vs. 8.34 ± 0.44%, p < 0.001) compared to baseline. The MICT group showed significant reductions in PAI-1 (30.37 ± 2.92 vs. 38.49 ± 2.40 ng/mL, p < 0.001) and HbA1c (6.78 ± 0.36 vs. 8.15 ± 0.63%, p < 0.001) compared to baseline. The differences in these outcomes between groups were not significant. BMI was not significantly changed in either group. Conclusions: MICT could be as effective as HIIT for reducing elevated PAI-1 and HbA1c levels in obese women with Type 2 diabetes, regardless of BMI changes. However, the less vigorous MICT may be preferable in this patient population to improve fibrinolysis and hyperglycemia.