Effects of aerobic interval training on metabolic complications and cardiorespiratory fitness in young adults with psychotic disorders: a pilot study

Abstract

Aim: To assess the feasibility of implementing a 14-week aerobic interval training (AIT) program within a first-episode psychosis (FEP) service and its efficacy in improving metabolic outcomes and cardiorespiratory fitness.

Method: Twenty-five male subjects participated in 30-minute sessions of AIT twice a week.

Results: Sixteen of 25 subjects completed the training program. There was a significant decrease in waist circumference (WC; -4.3 cm; p=0.015), resting heart rate (-8.6 bpm; p<0.05) and a 38% increase in VO2max (p<0.001). The decrease in WC (-5.6 cm; p<0.01) was more pronounced for subjects who completed at least 64% of the planned sessions.

Conclusion: An AIT program could be implemented in FEP patients and improve WC and cardiorespiratory fitness over a relatively short period.

Keywords: Aerobic interval training; Antipsychotic complications; First-episode psychosis; Non-pharmacological treatment; Schizophrenia; Waist circumference.