Impact of low-volume, high-intensity interval training on maximal aerobic capacity, health-related quality of life and motivation to exercise in ageing men

摘要

Abstract There is a demand for effective training methods that encourage exercise adherence during advancing age, particularly in sedentary populations. This study examined the effects of high-intensity interval training (HUT) exercise on health-related quality of life (HRQL), aerobic fitness and motivation to exercise in ageing men. Participants consisted of males who were either lifelong sedentary (SED; N=25; age 63±5 years) or lifelong exercisers (LEX; N= 19; aged 61 ±5 years). V02max and HRQL were measured at three phases: baseline (Phase A), week seven (Phase B) and week 13 (Phase C). Motivation to exercise was measured at baseline and week 13. VO2max was significantly higher in LEX (39.2±5.6 ml kg min"1) compared to SED (27.2 ±5.2 ml kg min"1) and increased in both groups from Phase A to C (SED 4.6±3.2 ml kg min"1,95 % CI 3.1 -6.0; LEX 4.9±3.4 ml kg min"1, 95 % CI 3.1-6.6) Physical functioning (97±4 LEX; 93 ±7 SED) and general health (70± 11 LEX; 78± 11 SED) were significantly higher in LEX but increased only in the SED group from Phase A to C (physical functioning 17±18, 95 % CI 9-26, general health 14±14,95 % CI 8-21). Exercise motives related to social recognition (2.4± 1.2 LEX; 1.5 ±1.0 SED), affiliation (2.7±1.0 LEX; 1.6±1.2 SED) and competition (3.3±1.3 LEX; 2.2±1.1) were significantly higher in LEX yet weight management motives were significantly higher in SED (2.9±1.1 LEX; 4.3± 0.5 SED). The study provides preliminary evidence that low-volume HUT increases perceptions of HRQL, exercise motives and aerobic capacity in older adults, to varying degrees, in both SED and LEX groups.