Effects of combining a high-intensity interval training programme with a standard programme on mobility and function...

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Exercise Physiology
• Prosthetics and Orthotics

Background:

• High energy expenditure during walking is a major limitation for individuals with lower limb amputations.
• Existing physical training methods offer limited improvements in walking economy for amputees.
• The impact of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on amputee mobility remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a 6-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocol on lower limb amputees.
• To assess the impact of HIIT on walking distance, physiological cost of walking, and functional mobility.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental pre- and post-test design was employed.
• Thirteen subjects with lower limb amputation participated in 12 HIIT sessions over 6 weeks (2 sessions/week).
• Measurements included walking distance, physiological cost of walking (heart rate per meter), and functional mobility.

Main Results:

• Walking distance significantly increased from 204.48m to 229.09m (P=0.003).
• Physiological cost of walking significantly decreased from 0.66 beats/m to 0.31 beats/m (P=0.001).
• Functional mobility scores significantly improved from 30.38 to 33.61 (P=0.001).

Conclusions:

• A 6-week high-intensity interval training program effectively enhanced walking distance in lower limb amputees.
• HIIT significantly reduced the physiological cost of walking, indicating improved energy efficiency.
• The training protocol led to significant improvements in functional mobility for individuals with lower limb amputation.