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

Schizophr Res. 2013 Sep;149(1-3):112-5. doi: 10.1016/j.schres.2013.06.040. Epub 2013 Jul 18.

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.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Exercise*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Heart Rate
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Metabolic Diseases / etiology
  • Metabolic Diseases / rehabilitation*
  • Oxygen Consumption
  • Physical Fitness / physiology
  • Pilot Projects
  • Psychotic Disorders / classification
  • Psychotic Disorders / complications*
  • Psychotic Disorders / drug therapy
  • Psychotic Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Waist Circumference
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents