Feasibility of high intensity training protocol on body composition and bone mineral density in older individuals with central obesity – a preliminary study

Abstract Osteoporosis and body composition changes are prevalent musculoskeletal issues contributing to increased risk of frailty in older people. Weight bearing directly influences bone mineral density and body composition. Study aims to determine feasibility of high intensity interval training (HIIT) protocol on body composition parameters and bone mineral density (BMD) in older individuals. Twenty-four participants were randomly allocated to two study groups. The interventional group received supervised HIIT protocol while control group performed non-supervised brisk walking on alternate days over 3 months. Pre- and post-outcome measures were taken at baseline and 3 months which included, BMD using portable densitometer, body composition using a bioelectric impedance analyser, and basic anthropometry. Between group analysis demonstrated the interventional group to be significantly better than control group for all parameters ( ). In conclusion, HIIT protocol is feasible and effective method in improving body composition parameters and BMD in older individuals. Clinical Trials Registry-India with CTRI number CTRI/2022/01/039740.