High intensity interval training for people with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Aerobic high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is recognized for its efficiency in enhancing fitness compared to continuous moderate-intensity training.
• The existing body of literature on HIIT for multiple sclerosis (MS) is growing, necessitating a comprehensive systematic review.
• This review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HIIT interventions in individuals diagnosed with MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize the available evidence on the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
• To assess the safety and tolerability of HIIT interventions in the MS population.
• To identify gaps in the current research regarding HIIT for MS, particularly for individuals with progressive disease or higher disability levels.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, PEDro, CENTRAL, Web of Science) in September 2017.
• Inclusion criteria focused on English-language studies employing HIIT in participants with MS, with reference lists of relevant articles also screened.
• Study quality was assessed using the PEDro scale, and data on study design, outcomes, results, drop-outs, and adverse events were extracted.

Main Results:

• Seven studies (four RCTs, one crossover, two cohort) involving 249 participants were included; most participants had mild disability.
• Fitness improvements were reported in five of six studies measuring this domain, with cycle ergometry being the most common HIIT modality.
• One study involving progressive MS with higher disability did not report positive results; adverse events were infrequent and mostly minor.

Conclusions:

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) demonstrates safety and efficacy in enhancing fitness among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) and lower levels of disability.
• Further research is warranted to determine the effectiveness of HIIT in individuals with progressive MS and those experiencing more significant disability.
• HIIT may be a valuable and efficient exercise modality for managing fitness in specific MS populations.