Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) in Cardiac Rehabilitation for Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has emerged as a promising approach in cardiac rehabilitation, especially for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent studies suggest that HIIT may surpass Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) in various outcomes, such as functional capacity, prognostic markers, and quality of life. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HIIT compared to MICT in patients with CAD, focusing on cardiorespiratory gains, functional improvements, and quality of life. METHODOLOGY: An integrative review was conducted based on four key studies published between 2019 and 2023, including randomized clinical trials and systematic reviews. The outcomes analyzed included maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), functional capacity, and quality of life markers. RESULTS: HIIT demonstrated significant improvements in VO2 max in short-term programs (≤8 weeks), with an adjusted mean difference of 1.04 mL.kg⁻¹.min⁻¹ (p = 0.002). LVEF also showed a significant increase (+5.7%, p < 0.001) compared to MICT. Additionally, greater impacts were observed on quality of life and reductions in cardiovascular risk markers, such as abdominal circumference and systolic blood pressure. CONCLUSION: HIIT is an effective and safe alternative to MICT, providing superior benefits across various outcomes in cardiac rehabilitation for CAD patients. Future studies should explore its application in long-term programs and more vulnerable populations.