High-Intensity Interval Training Versus Moderate Intensity Combined Training (Resistance and Aerobic) for Improving Insulin-Related Adipokines in Type 2 Diabetic Women

The impaired adipocytes secrete factors observed in diabetes contribute to insulin resistance. The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of high-intensity interval versus moderate intensity combined resistance and aerobic training on some adipokines related to insulin resistance (interleukin-6 [IL-6], apelin, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1)) in women with type 2 diabetes.

Fifty two females with type 2 diabetes (aged 45 - 60 years, the HbA1C value of 6.5% or above, and fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L)) were assessed for eligibility. The participants were assigned to a HIIT group (n = 17), a combined resistance and aerobic training group (n = 17), and a control group (n = 18) randomly. The exercises included 10 weeks of combined training and HIIT.

TNF-α concentrations changed significantly in the HIIT (P = 0.001) and combined training (P = 0.015) groups. The same test revealed that the differences were significant for the IL-6 in the HIIT (P < 0.000) and combined training (P < 0.000) groups. Data also showed significant differences in MCP-1 and IL-6 levels in the HIIT and combined resistance and aerobic training groups (P < 0.05). In addition, there were no significant changes in apelin in both groups after 10 weeks (P > 0.05). The ANCOVA test showed no significant differences in apelin (F = 0.511, P = 0.12).

The results highlight that exercise training, independent of the mode of training, is an effective strategy to improve some adipokines related to insulin resistance in women with type 2 diabetes