Interval walking training in type 2 diabetes: A pilot study to evaluate the applicability as exercise therapy.

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Metabolic Health
• Diabetes Management

Background:

• Few established, easy-to-perform exercise protocols exist for type 2 diabetes (T2D).
• Interval walking training (IWT) shows promise for improving metabolic function and physical fitness in general populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess adherence to IWT in adults with T2D.
• To evaluate changes in metabolic markers, body composition, and physical fitness following a 20-week IWT intervention.
• To perform statistical hypothesis testing and calculate effect sizes for observed changes.

Main Methods:

• A 20-week single-arm pilot study involving 51 adults with T2D (age 20-80, HbA1c 6.5-10.0%, BMI 20-34 kg/m2).
• Participants engaged in IWT aiming for 60 minutes/week of fast walking.
• Measurements included glucose and lipid metabolism, body composition, physical fitness (VO2 peak), muscle strength, and dietary intake at 4-week intervals.

Main Results:

• All participants completed IWT; 39% met the target exercise duration.
• No significant changes in HbA1c, lipid metabolism (except HDL-C), or body composition were observed.
• Significant increase in HDL-C (1.4 to 1.5 mmol/L, p=0.0093) and VO2 peak (10%, p=0.037) in the target achievement group.
• Small to medium effect sizes (Cohen's d) were noted for HDL-C, triglycerides, and VO2 peak.

Conclusions:

• IWT is a versatile exercise modality for individuals with T2D.
• IWT may positively influence lipid metabolism and physical fitness, particularly VO2 peak.
• Further randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings and explore detailed effects.