High-Intensity Interval Training for Depression in Older Adults
Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training on Depressive Symptoms in Hong Kong Older Adults With Mild and Moderate Depression: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if high-intensity interval training can help older adults in Hong Kong feel less depressed compared to other activities like Qigong and recreation workshops.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 144 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years to 74 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Hong Kong Baptist University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06014294 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on depressive symptoms among older adults in Hong Kong. It employs a cluster randomized controlled trial design with three groups: one receiving HIIT, another practicing Baduanjin Qigong, and a third participating in a recreation workshop. Participants will be assessed at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and three months later on various outcomes including depressive symptoms, cortisol levels, sleep quality, quality of life, and physical fitness. The aim is to determine if HIIT can provide a more effective alternative to traditional moderate-intensity exercise for this population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are Chinese older adults aged 60 to 74 with mild to moderate depressive symptoms and no cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients with severe chronic diseases that restrict high-intensity exercise or those with cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve mental health and quality of life for older adults suffering from depression.
How similar studies have performed: While traditional moderate-intensity exercise has shown benefits for older adults with depression, the effectiveness of HIIT in this demographic is less established, making this a novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 60 to 74 years at the start date of the project * Chinese version of Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-C) scoring 5-11 (i.e., mild to moderate level of depressive symptoms) * Passing the PAR-Q plus screening or with the physician's approval for readiness to participate in high-intensity exercise * Above the average level of 2-mins stepping showing competent aerobic fitness * No restriction on physical mobility * No cognitive impairment, as determined by the Chinese version of the Mini-Mental Status Examination (i.e., score \< 24) * No previous substantial experiences in practicing HIIT or Baduanjin Qigong. The written informed consent form will be collected from each participant Exclusion Criteria: * Severe chronic disease restricting high-intensity exercise * Having cognition impairment regarded by specialists
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- Bliss District Elderly Community Centre — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yanping Duan — Hong Kong Baptist Univeristy; Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health
- Study coordinator: Yanping Duan
- Email: duanyp@hkbu.edu.hk
- Phone: 34115638
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.