Supramaximal high-intensity interval training for older adults in a community setting: a pragmatic feasibility study
Question
Can a previously researched supramaximal cycling HIT program be feasibly implemented for older adults in a community training facility?
Summary
A 3-month community feasibility study adapted supramaximal cycling intervals for older adults. Attendance was high among completers and participants often found the format engaging, but the 6-second watt-based intervals were complex to manage. Four of 21 participants reported adverse events, none serious.
Methodology
- Twenty-one medically screened older adults in a Swedish community facility.
- 21 participants.
- Indoor cycling.
- Work intervals: 6 seconds.
- Recovery: 54 seconds.
- Intensity: Individual watts based on 60% of estimated maximum mean 6-second power.
- 20 minutes.
- 2 sessions/week.
- 3 months; 25 sessions.
- Single-arm pragmatic mixed-methods feasibility study
- Feasibility, Adverse events, and Power and VO2max were tracked.
Outcomes
Attendance
Completers attended most sessions.
Median 88%, range 40-100%.
Fitness estimates
Completers showed positive median changes in 6-second power and VO2max, with individual variation.
Power +42 W (+13%); VO2max +0.6 ml/kg/min (+2.5%).
Feasibility
Participants found the program engaging, but short intervals and watt management were complex.
Qualitative/descriptive.
Safety
Four participants reported adverse events; none were serious.
13 events total; musculoskeletal n=8, equipment n=5, cardiorespiratory n=3, disease n=1.
Insights
- Older-adult supramaximal intervals may need app/timer support or programmable bikes to reduce complexity.
- Medical screening, instructor support, and clear progression rules were important confidence and safety features.
Limitations
- Single-arm feasibility study.
- Small volunteer sample.
- Prespecified sample size not reached.
- No formal effectiveness testing.
Safety
- Four of 21 participants reported adverse events; 13 events total and none serious.
- Reported issues included musculoskeletal events, equipment-related discomfort, cardiorespiratory symptoms including chest discomfort that was medically investigated without treatment, and increased symptoms from inflammatory disease.