A multi-disciplinary evaluation of a virtually supervised home-based high-intensity interval training intervention in people with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE: Adopt a multi-disciplinary approach to evaluate a virtually-supervised home-based high-intensity interval training (Home-HIT) intervention in people with type 1 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Eleven individuals with type 1 diabetes (7 women; age 30±3 years; V ̇O2peak 2.5±0.2 L/min-1; duration of diabetes 10±2 years) completed six weeks of Home-HIT. A HR monitor and mobile phone application were used to provide feedback to the participants and research team on exercise intensity (compliance) and adherence. RESULTS: Training adherence was 95±2% and compliance was 99±1%. Home-HIT increased V ̇O2peak by 7% (P=0.017) and decreased insulin dose by 13% (P=0.012). Blood glucose concentration did not change from baseline to immediately or 1h post Home-HIT. Qualitative perceptions of Home-HIT and the virtual-monitoring system were positive, supporting that the intervention successfully removed exercise barriers in people with type 1 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: Virtually-monitored Home-HIT resulted in high adherence alongside increased V ̇O2peak and decreased insulin dose.