High-Intensity Interval Training is Associated with Improved Long-Term Survival in Heart Failure Patients

This matched-control cohort study explored the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on left ventricle (LV) dimensions and survival in heart failure (HF) patients between 2009 and 2016. HF patients who underwent the multidisciplinary disease management program (MDP) were enrolled. Non-exercising participants, aged (mean (95% confidence interval)) 62.8 (60.1–65.5) years, were categorized as the MDP group (n = 101). Participants aged 61.5 (58.7–64.2) years who had completed 36 sessions of HIIT were treated as the HIIT group (n = 101). Peak oxygen consumption (VO(2peak)) and LV geometry were assessed during the 8-year follow-up period. The 5-year all-cause mortality risk factors and overall survival rates were determined in the longitudinal observation. An increased VO(2peak) of 14–20% was observed in the HIIT group after exercise training. Each 1-mL/kg/min increase in VO(2peak) conferred a 58% improvement in 5-year mortality. Increased LV end-systolic diameter (LVESD) was significantly (p = 0.0198) associated with increased mortality. The 8-month survival rate was significantly improved (p = 0.044) in HIIT participants compared to non-exercise participants. HF patients with VO(2peak) ≥14.0 mL/kg/min and LVESD <44 mm had a significantly better 5-year survival rate (98.2%) than those (57.3%) with lower VO(2peak) and greater LVESD. Both HIIT-induced increased VO(2peak) and decreased LVESD are associated with improved survival in HF patients.