High-intensity interval training versus moderate continuous cycling for frail older adults
Comparison of the Effects of Different Exercise Modalities in Frail Elderly People Care Setting
This project tests whether high-intensity interval training or moderate-intensity continuous training on a stationary bike better maintains independence and physical function in people aged 70 and older who are frail.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 92 (estimated) |
| Ages | 70 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Grenoble Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Grenoble) |
| Trial ID | NCT07211334 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is an observational, routine-care project conducted at the Health and Sport Center of Grenoble Alpes University Hospital comparing two real-world exercise approaches on an ergocycle: high-intensity interval training (HIIT) versus moderate-intensity continuous training. Participants are adults aged 70+ meeting at least one Fried frailty criterion who are medically stable and able to use a stationary bike safely. The protocol does not change standard care but records current practices, cardiorespiratory responses, functional mobility, and motivation for physical activity. Results aim to inform how exercise intensity is applied in care pathways for frail older adults.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 70 or older who meet at least one Fried frailty criterion, are medically stable, and can safely use an ergocycle are the intended participants.
Not a fit: People with unstable medical conditions, severe musculoskeletal or cognitive impairments that prevent safe cycling, or those currently enrolled in other interventional studies are unlikely to benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could help clinicians choose exercise intensities that better preserve mobility, independence, and quality of life in frail older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies in older adults show both HIIT and moderate continuous training can improve fitness and function, but evidence specifically in frail elderly is limited and mixed.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 70 or older; * Patients meeting at least 1 of 5 frailty criteria (Fried criteria; 2001); * Patient does not object to the analysis of anonymized data; * Person affiliated with social security; * Patient's ability to use an ergocycle safely; * Patients medically stable patients with no acute illness or recent decompensation that could be aggravated by exercise (at the physician's discretion). Exclusion Criteria: * Unstable medical conditions that may be aggravated by physical activity (as determined by a physician) * Musculoskeletal disorders and severe neurocognitive conditions that make it impossible to safely use the ergocycle or participate in the exercise program * individuals participating in other interventional studies or who have recently participated in an interventional study that could influence the results of this study * Persons referred to in Articles L1121-5 to L1121-8 of the public health code (corresponds to all protected persons: pregnant women, women in labor, breastfeeding mothers, persons deprived of their liberty by judicial or administrative decision, persons subject to legal protection measures)
Where this trial is running
Grenoble
- University Grenoble alpes — Grenoble, France (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Flore PATRICE
- Email: PFlore@chu-grenoble.fr
- Phone: 04 76 76 72 26
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.