Effect of interval training on cognitive functioning and cerebral oxygenation in obese patients: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of a 4-month high-intensity interval training programme on cognitive functioning, cerebral oxygenation, central haemodynamic and cardiometabolic parameters and aerobic capacity in obese patients. METHODS Cognitive functioning, cerebral oxygenation, central haemodynamic, cardiometabolic and exercise para-meters were measured before and after a 4-month high-intensity interval training programme in 6 obese patients (mean age 49 years (standard deviation 8), fat mass percentage 31 ± 7%). RESULTS Body composition (body mass, total and trunk fat mass, waist circumference) and fasting insulin were improved after the programme (p < 0.05). V. O2 and power output at ventilatory threshold and peak power output were improved after the programme (p < 0.05). Cognitive functioning, including short-term and verbal memory, attention and processing speed, was significantly improved after training (p < 0.05). Cerebral oxygen extraction was also improved after training (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION These preliminary results indicate that a 4-month high-intensity interval training programme in obese patients improved both cognitive functioning and cere-bral oxygen extraction, in association with improved exercise capacity and body composition.