Comparing two types of exercise therapy for mental disorders

Exercise Therapy in Mental Disorders-study

Not applicable Interventional Haukeland University Hospital · NCT06313918

This study is testing whether a standard high-intensity workout or a shorter, easier version is better for improving mental health in people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages16 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorHaukeland University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Bergen)
Trial IDNCT06313918 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of standard high-intensity training (HIT) with a shorter, less intense version of HIT in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and bipolar disorder. The research will involve randomizing participants to either a standard 4x4-minute HIT regimen or a single 4-minute HIT session over a period of 26 weeks. The goal is to determine which exercise approach is more effective in improving mental health outcomes while also considering adherence to the exercise program. The intervention will be supervised by physical therapists to enhance compliance and support.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders or bipolar disorder who can provide informed consent.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications for exercise training or those with life-threatening medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment options for patients with severe mental disorders, enhancing their quality of life and reducing health risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that exercise can be beneficial for mental health, but this specific comparison of exercise intensities is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ICD-10 schizophrenia-spectrum disorder (F2)
* ICD-10 bipolar disorder (F3)
* Capacity to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contra-indication for exercise training and testing according to the American College of Sports Medicine specifications
* Life threatening or terminal medical conditions
* Not able to carry out intervention or test procedures
* Current pregnancy
* Mothers less than 6 months post-partum.

Where this trial is running

Bergen

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Schizophrenia and Related DisordersBipolar DisorderExercise therapyEffectiveness
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.