HIGH-intensity short-duration exercise provides better results than the recommended 30 minutes of daily exercise, study results have indicated.

Researchers from the University of Queensland are studying the benefits of high intensity interval training as the most effective way of reducing the risk of heart disease in the 30% of Australians with metabolic syndrome.

Professor Jeff Coombes of the School of Human Movement Studies said that although the trial was in early stages, results had been promising.

“Out of the 25 participants who have taken part in the high intensity exercise program, seven no longer have metabolic syndrome,” he said.

“Participants observed improved weight loss and a reversal in high levels of cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure, as well as improved fitness levels.

“By simultaneously reducing these risk factors you significantly decrease the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke.”

The study involved participants training three times a week for 16 weeks, with one group exercising at high intensity for one four-minute period and a second group exercising at high intensity for four four-minute periods.

Results were compared with a control group exercising moderately for half an hour.

“These results show that short bursts of high intensity exercise could get the same, if not better, results in half the time,” added Professor Coombes.

“We are working to confirm these exciting results through a multi-centre international trial with 750 individuals.”

UQ is now looking for a second group of participants (30 years or older, overweight, and two of the following: high glucose or diabetes; high cholesterol; or high blood pressure) to take part in the study.