Interval Training For Cardiac Rehabilitation?
Short bursts of high intensity sprints–known to benefit muscle and improve exercise performance–can improve the function and structure of blood vessels, in particular arteries that deliver blood to our muscles and heart, according to new research from McMaster University.
The study is published online in the journal American Journal of Physiology. Regulatory, Integrative & Comparative Physiology.
The Study:
Training Protocols:
- Interval training: 30 second “all out” sprints 3x per week for 6 weeks
- Moderate Intensity: 40-60 minutes cycling 5x per week for 6 weeks
The Findings:
- Interval training improves the structure and function of arteries as much as traditional cardio.
The findings support the idea that people can exercise using brief, high-intensity forms of exercise and reap the same benefits to cardiovascular health that can be derived from traditional, long-duration and moderately intense exercise. In addition, more and more scientists and professionals are recommending interval training protocols even during cardiac rehabilitation programs.
Want to know how to implement an interval training program? My friend Craig Ballantyne is offering a discounted trial period for those who want to fire up their training program. Check it out at Turbulence Training.
McMaster University (2008, June 4). Brief, Intense Exercise Can Benefit The Heart, Study Shows. ScienceDaily. Retrieved November 12, 2008, from http://www.sciencedaily.com /releases/2008/06/080604101529.htm
