Comparing high-intensity versus moderate-intensity exercise training in coronary artery disease patients: a randomized controlled trial with 6- and 12-month follow-up

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the long-term effects of two exercise-based CR programs on physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior, physical fitness, quality of life (QoL), and mental health in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Subject and methods: Seventy-two CAD participants were randomized (1:1:1) into HIIT, MICT, and control groups. Both training programs spanned 6 weeks with three supervised treadmill exercise sessions per week. MICT targeted ≈70–75% of peak heart rate (HR), while HIIT aimed for ≈85–95% of peak HR. The control group adhered to standard medical recommendations. Assessments at 6- and 12-months post-intervention included body composition, aerobic capacity, muscle strength, PA, SB, QoL, anxiety, and depression. Results: Over the 6- and 12-month follow-up periods, both exercise groups maintained the levels of aerobic capacity (HIIT ≈ 19.6 ml kg−1 min−1, MICT ≈ 17.8 ml kg−1 min−1), QoL, and PA compared to baseline (p