High-Intensity Interval Training Versus Moderate Intensity Combined Training (Resistance and Aerobic) for Improving Insulin-Related Adipokines in Type 2 Diabetic Women

Background: The impaired adipocytes secrete factors observed in diabetes contribute to insulin resistance. The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of high-intensity interval versus moderate intensity combined resistance and aerobic training on some adipokines related to insulin resistance (interleukin-6 [IL-6], apelin, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1)) in women with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Fifty two females with type 2 diabetes (aged 45 - 60 years, the HbA1C value of 6.5% or above, and fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L)) were assessed for eligibility. The participants were assigned to a HIIT group (n = 17), a combined resistance and aerobic training group (n = 17), and a control group (n = 18) randomly. The exercises included 10 weeks of combined training and HIIT. Results: TNF-α concentrations changed significantly in the HIIT (P = 0.001) and combined training (P = 0.015) groups. The same test revealed that the differences were significant for the IL-6 in the HIIT (P 0.000) and combined training (P 0.000) groups. Data also showed significant differences in MCP-1 and IL-6 levels in the HIIT and combined resistance and aerobic training groups (P 0.05). In addition, there were no significant changes in apelin in both groups after 10 weeks (P 0.05). The ANCOVA test showed no significant differences in apelin (F = 0.511, P = 0.12). Conclusions: The results highlight that exercise training, independent of the mode of training, is an effective strategy to improve some adipokines related to insulin resistance in women with type 2 diabetes.