Effects of a multicomponent exercise programme including high-intensity interval training in institutionalised older adults with probable sarcopenia: a multicentre randomised controlled trial

Exercise is one of the most promising non-pharmacological interventions for maintaining or improving physical function in older age. Although high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is feasible and safe in older adults with frailty, its effects on institutionalised older adults with probable sarcopenia remain unclear. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of a 12-week multicomponent programme including high intensity interval training on handgrip strength, muscle mass, and physical performance in institutionalised older adults with probable sarcopenia. Ninety-two institutionalised older adults were randomly assigned to a treatment group (TG; n = 46), which received a 12-week multicomponent programme incorporating HIIT, or to a control group (CG; n = 46), who continued their usual activities. Handgrip strength, muscle mass, and physical performance (SPPB and TUG) were assessed at baseline, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks. A complete-case analysis was conducted. Relative risk, absolute and relative risk reduction, and number needed to treat were calculated. Statistically significant between-group differences in favour of the TG were observed for all outcome measures except muscle mass: handgrip strength (mean difference: 9.11 [7.70 to 10.51]; p < 0.001; d = 3.44), SPPB (mean difference: 3.75 [2.93 to 4.56]; p < 0.001; d = 2.44), and TUG (mean difference: -7.09 [-11.43 to -2.75]; p < 0.001; d = 0.87). The number needed to treat at 12 weeks was 2 (95% confidence interval, 2–2; p < 0.001) for both handgrip strength and SPPB. A 12-week multicomponent programme with HIIT is a method to consider for improving clinical benefits in handgrip strength and physical performance in institutionalised older adults with probable sarcopenia. Controlled Trials NCT07315789 (12/10/2025). “Retrospectively registered”.