Effects of high intensity interval exercise on cerebrovascular function: A systematic review
Alicen A Whitaker1, Mohammed Alwatban1, Andrea Freemyer1
1Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States of America.
Plos One
|October 29, 2020
Summary
High intensity interval exercise (HIIE) impacts cerebrovascular function, affecting cerebral blood velocity and autoregulation. More research is needed to confirm these effects in healthy individuals and those with chronic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Science
Background:
- High intensity interval exercise (HIIE) is recognized for enhancing aerobic fitness efficiently.
- Limited research exists on HIIE's specific effects on cerebrovascular function, including cerebral blood velocity and autoregulation.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing exercise protocols and assessing potential risks or benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize the existing literature on the effects of HIIE on cerebrovascular function in healthy individuals.
- To identify specific cerebrovascular outcomes influenced by HIIE, such as middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv), dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA), and cerebrovascular reactivity.
- To evaluate the quality of evidence and highlight gaps in current research.
Main Methods:
- A systematic search of PubMed and CINAHL databases was conducted using predefined keywords.
- Studies were screened and selected based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) guidelines.
- Seven relevant articles were critically appraised using the modified Sackett's criteria to assess methodological quality.
Main Results:
- HIIE acutely reduced MCAv compared to moderate-intensity exercise.
- Both acute and chronic HIIE were associated with decreased dCA phase compared to rest.
- HIIE acutely increased cerebral deoxygenation and decreased cerebrovascular reactivity to carbon dioxide (CO2).
Conclusions:
- The acute and chronic effects of HIIE on cerebrovascular function are variable and depend on the specific outcome measured.
- Further rigorous research is necessary to confirm these findings in healthy populations and explore effects in individuals with chronic health conditions.
- Standardized assessment of MCAv, dCA, and CO2 reactivity during and after HIIE is recommended for future studies.
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