The impact of high-intensity interval training on insulin sensitivity and quality of life in women with overweight polycystic ovary syndrome

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. Insulin resistance is central to its pathophysiology, contributing to metabolic disturbances and increased cardiometabolic risks. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has emerged as a promising intervention to improve metabolic health.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the specific effects of HIIT on insulin sensitivity, body composition, metabolic profile, and quality of life in women with overweight PCOS.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 107 female patients with overweight PCOS who were divided into two groups: the Regular Interval Training Group (n = 54) and the HIIT Group (n = 53). Baseline data, including insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, body composition, metabolic profile, and quality of life, were measured and compared between the two groups.ResultsThe HIIT Group demonstrated significantly improved insulin sensitivity, reduced fasting glucose levels, lower HOMA-IR index, lower body fat percentage, decreased waist and hip circumferences, improved favorable changes in metabolic profile, and significant improvements in quality of life compared to the Regular Interval Training Group. These findings suggest that HIIT led to beneficial outcomes across various metabolic and clinical parameters in women with overweight PCOS.ConclusionThe findings of this study highlight the potential of personalized exercise prescriptions, such as HIIT, in optimizing health outcomes in women with overweight PCOS. The observed improvements in insulin sensitivity, body composition, metabolic profile, and quality of life underscore the promising role of HIIT in addressing the multifaceted implications of PCOS and its associated metabolic and reproductive implications.