High Intensity Interval Training in Severe Mental Illness
Research type
Research Study
Full title
“Is the use of high intensity interval training (HIIT) feasible and acceptable amongst inpatients with Severe Mental Illness (SMI)?” A Pilot Study.
IRAS ID
263996
Contact name
Brendon Stubbs
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 9 months, 31 days
Research summary
People experiencing severe mental illnesses (SMI), including schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, are prone to poorer physical health and increased incidences of premature mortality when compared to the general population. High-intensity-interval-training (HIIT) is a type of exercise involving alternating short bursts of high intensity exercise with recovery periods of rest/ light exercise. HIIT improves physical health, quality of life and cognition in the general population and in those with physical health disorders. We propose that HIIT may improve symptoms, physical health and time to discharge among inpatients with SMI.
The research will involve three stages: 1) Focus groups, 2) A pilot study, 3) Follow-up qualitative interviews and focus groups.
Firstly, we will conduct a series of focus groups with inpatients with SMI, carers of individuals with SMI and clinical staff. The focus groups will scope perceptions of attitudes, and practicalities of a pilot RCT. The information gained will be used to inform a pilot HIIT trial which will evaluate whether HIIT is acceptable and feasible amongst this population group. Each focus group will run for ≈2 hours and will involve an open discussion about the benefits and barriers of conducting HIIT exercise sessions in a population with SMI.
Secondly, the HIIT pilot study will be trialled. The final protocol will be developed with feedback from the focus group but will involve an RCT where 12 weeks of HIIT will be compared to 12 weeks of treatment-as-usual (TAU). HIIT will be conducted, twice a week, in a supervised environment using a stationary bike. Inpatients with a diagnosis of SMI will be eligible to participate. Thirdly, follow-up qualitative interviews, with pilot study participants, those that withdrew and those that did not want to take part, and focus groups with clinical staff will address the acceptability and feasibility of HIIT.REC name
London - Bloomsbury Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/LO/0901
Date of REC Opinion
30 Jul 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion