HIIT v MISS in PCOS
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Effects of high-intensity interval training versus moderate-intensity steady-state training on mental health, cognitive and cardiometabolic outcomes in young women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: a pilot randomised, controlled trial.
IRAS ID
262172
Contact name
Aled Rees
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition affecting young women, and is characterised by irregular periods, excessive hair growth (hirsutism) and difficulty in getting pregnant. Patients are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and several mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. Lifestyle modification, including exercise, is an important part of management, but the best way in which this can be achieved is unclear. High-intensity interval training (HIIT), which alternates short bursts of intense exercise with recovery periods, has recently emerged as a time-efficient way to improve cardiovascular fitness in the general population. Compared with moderate-intensity steady state (MISS) training, HIIT may improve exercise adherence. Studies have also shown that it may improve depression, fatigue and cognition, but the effects on these outcomes in young people are unknown. We propose that HIIT may improve mental well-being, cognitive performance and physical health in women with PCOS, compared with MISS or usual care. We aim to explore this in a randomised, controlled trial.
REC name
Wales REC 2
REC reference
19/WA/0093
Date of REC Opinion
30 May 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion