Effect of high-intensity interval training in adolescents with asthma: The eXercise for Asthma with Commando Joe's® (X4ACJ) trial

• Adolescents with asthma have similar aerobic fitness to their non-asthma peers. High-intensity interval training may prevent increases in body mass index. is equally effective at increasing fitness, regardless of status. Higher levels cardiorespiratory are associated reduced severity and increased quality life those asthma. Therefore, the purpose this study was evaluate effectiveness a 6-month high-intensity (HIIT) intervention adolescents without A total 616 (334 boys; 13.0 ± 1.1 years, 1.57 0.10 m, 52.6 12.9 kg, mean SD), including 155 (78 boys), were recruited as part randomized controlled trial from 5 schools (4 control 1 intervention). The 221 participants (116 47 asthma) completed 6 months school-based HIIT (30 min, 3 times per week, 10–30 s bouts >90% age-predicted maximum heart rate equal rest). At baseline, mid-intervention, post-intervention, 3-month follow-up, measurements for 20-m shuttle run, index (BMI), lung function, Pediatric Quality Life Inventory, Paediatric Asthma Questionnaire, Control Questionnaire collected. Additionally, 69 (39 boys (of 36 there 21 boys)) also an incremental ramp test. For analysis, each group's data (intervention control) divided into Participants did not differ peers any parameter time-point, but characterized by greater BMI. elicited significant improvement maximal no change sub-maximal parameters or irrespective Those group maintained BMI, whereas BMI significantly throughout period. represents tool improving maintaining adolescents, well-tolerated asthma, who evidenced healthy responded well program.