High-intensity interval training (HIIT) may improve bone health and reduce cholesterol levels in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), according to a recent study. Additionally, the training method seems to enhance physical function and lipid profiles, highlighting its potential benefits for MS management.

A recent randomized controlled trial, published in Scientific Reports, evaluated the effects of HIIT on bone remodeling, lipid profiles, and physical function in patients with MS. 

Out of 130 initially recruited participants, 16 with MS met the inclusion criteria and were randomized into either the exercise group or the control group. The control group had an average age of 34.88 ± 4.45 years, a height of 168.25 ± 8.66 cm, and a weight of 72.31 ± 17.28 kg; the exercise group had an average age of 36.20 ± 7.80 years, a height of 170.40 ± 11.96 cm, and a weight of 72.70 ± 16.69 kg. The exercise group participated in a remotely supervised HIIT protocol three times per week for 8 weeks, completing 71.54% of the scheduled sessions. Baseline and post-intervention assessments included physical function tests, bone remodeling markers, and lipid profile analysis.

Results indicated improvements in physical function for the exercise group. The wall squat test duration increased from 27.18 seconds to 41.68 seconds (P≤.01), and the Timed Up and Go test time decreased from 7.65 seconds to 6.34 seconds (P≤.01) among participants assigned to the exercise group. Lipid profile analysis showed a reduction in total cholesterol levels from 187.22 mg/dL to 173.44 mg/dL (P≤.05) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol from 108 mg/dL to 95.02 mg/dL (P<.05) among exercise group participants. Additionally, osteocalcin levels, indicative of bone formation, increased from 20.88 µg/L to 23.66 µg/L (P<.05), and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels improved from 21.11 µg/L to 27.66 µg/L (P<.05).

The study authors concluded, "HIIT training [was] confirmed to be an effective and safe training method for [patients with MS]. In addition, the study showed for the first time the effectiveness of HIIT on bone remodeling, lipid profile, and functionality of lower limbs in MS patients and suggests that HIIT training could be used to preserve bone status and slow the occurrence of osteoporosis. It also seems to be a good tool for maintaining a healthy lipid metabolism."

The authors reported no conflict of interest.