Abstract
Progressive resistance training (PRT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT)
improve cardiometabolic health in older adults. Whether combination
PRT+HIIT (COMB) provides similar or additional benefit is less clear.
This systematic review with meta-analysis of controlled trials examined effects
of PRT, HIIT and COMB compared to non-exercise control in older adults with high
cardiometabolic risk. Databases were searched until January 2021, with study
quality assessed using the PEDro scale. Risk factor data was extracted and
analysed using RevMan V.5.3. We analysed 422 participants from nine studies (7
PRT, n=149, 1 HIIT, n=10, 1 COMB, n=60; control
n=203; mean age 68.1±1.4 years). Compared to control, exercise
improved body mass index (mean difference (MD) −0.33 [−0.47,
−0.20], p≤0.0001), body fat% (standardised mean
difference (SMD) −0.71 [−1.34, −0.08], p=0.03),
aerobic capacity (SMD 0.41 [0.05, 0.78], p=0.03), low-density
lipoprotein (SMD −0.27 [−0.52, −0.01], p=0.04),
and blood glucose (SMD −0.31 [−0.58, −0.05],
p=0.02). Therefore, PRT, HIIT and COMB can improve cardiometabolic
health in older adults with cardiometabolic risk. Further research is warranted,
particularly in HIIT and COMB, to identify the optimal exercise prescription, if
any, for improving older adults cardiometabolic health. (PROSPERO:
CRD42019128527).
Key words aerobic fitness - ageing - muscular strength, HIIT