Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training on Diabetes: A Systematic Review
Keywords:
High-Intensity Interval Training , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 , Exercise Therapy , Glycated Hemoglobin A1C , Physical Fitness , Systematic ReviewAbstract
This systematic review aimed to synthesize the available evidence on the effects of High-intensity interval training (HIIT) on glycaemic control, cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, and lipid profiles in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The outcomes of HIIT were compared with those of non-exercising control groups and, where applicable, with moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT). A comprehensive literature search identified 650 potentially relevant studies, of which 9 high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final synthesis. The findings demonstrated that HIIT significantly reduced glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and fasting blood glucose compared with non-exercising controls. Moreover, HIIT produced comparable or superior improvements in glycaemic outcomes relative to MICT in several studies. In addition, HIIT was associated with significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, as measured by maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), and showed favorable trends in reducing body weight and blood lipid levels. Importantly, no serious adverse events related to HIIT were reported across the included studies. In conclusion, HIIT appears to be an effective and safe exercise modality for individuals with T2DM, particularly for improving long-term glycaemic control and enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness. Given its time-efficient nature, HIIT may represent a practical alternative for patients with limited time and could be incorporated into evidence-based diabetes management strategies.
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