Aerobic interval training in standard treatment of out-patients with schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and effects of integrating aerobic interval training (AIT) in standard care of out-patients with schizophrenia on aerobic capacity and conventional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors.

Methods: Out-patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder were randomized to the following: 1) a training group (TG), performing AIT 2 day/week at the clinic with adherence support from municipal services; or 2) a control group (CG), given two AIT sessions and encouraged to exercise on their own. Feasibility was assessed through retention/adherence. $\dot{V}{O}_{2\mathrm{peak}}$ was measured directly along with conventional CVD risk factors before and after 12 weeks.

Results: Of 48 out-patients, 16/25 and 18/23 completed the TG and CG respectively. After 12 weeks, $\dot{V}{O}_{2\mathrm{peak}}$ was higher (2.7 ± 4.8 ml/kg/min, P < 0.01) in the TG compared with the CG. The TG improved $\dot{V}{O}_{2\mathrm{peak}}$ by 3.1 ± 3.7 ml/kg/min (P < 0.01), while no change in the CG was observed. No intergroup difference in weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, lipids, or glucose at posttest was observed. Weight (1.9 ± 4.0 kg, P < 0.05) and BMI (0.5 ± 1.1 kg/m² , P < 0.05) increased in the CG, with no change in the TG.

Conclusion: AIT, combined with adherence support, of out-patients with schizophrenia was feasible, improved $\dot{V}{O}_{2\mathrm{peak}}$ , and may be integrated in standard care. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02743143).

Keywords: SMI; exercise training implementation; high aerobic intensity; psychosis.