High-intensity interval exercise program for people with Alzheimer's

Efficacy of a High-Intensity Interval Exercise Program Versus a Dual-Task Training Program in People With Alzheimer's: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Not applicable Interventional University of Valencia · NCT05691842

This study is testing if a high-intensity exercise program can help improve fitness and thinking skills in older adults with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment66 (estimated)
Ages60 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Valencia Academic / other
Locations1 site (Valencia)
Trial IDNCT05691842 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of a high-intensity interval exercise (HIIT) program compared to a cognitive and motor dual task balance program in individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The research aims to assess improvements in functional capacity and cognitive function among participants aged 60 to 90 diagnosed with mild to moderate AD. By incorporating brief bursts of vigorous activity followed by rest, the study seeks to determine if HIIT can enhance cardiovascular fitness and overall quality of life for those affected by AD. The study will take place at the Faculty of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 to 90 with a diagnosis of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease who can follow instructions and ambulate independently.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment, other neurological disorders, or significant cardiovascular issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the functional capacity and cognitive function of patients with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While HIIT has shown benefits in healthy older adults and various pathologies, this specific approach in Alzheimer's patients is novel and has not been previously tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged between 60 -90 years
* Diagnosed with mild or moderate AD according to the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR1).
* Ability to follow the instructions of the training program.
* Ability to get up from a chair alone.
* Independent ambulation.
* Providing signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Dementia or severe cognitive impairment that makes it impossible to understand instructions.
* Presence of other neurological pathologies such as: stroke, Parkinson's or cranioencephalic trauma.
* Severe cardiovascular disorders.
* Severe visual deficits.
* Vertigo
* Other limitations that make it difficult to ambulate.
* Participating in any high intensity exercise program.

Where this trial is running

Valencia

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 Alzheimer Disease
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.