Impact of interval walking training managed through smart mobile devices on albuminuria and leptin/adiponectin ratio in patients with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND: Interval walking training has demonstrated more pronounced positive effects on physical fitness and metabolism in type 2 diabetes (T2D), compared to continuous walking. One of the pathogenic mechanisms of T2D is associated with derangements in leptin/adiponectin axis, which might predispose affected individuals to vascular inflammation and albuminuria. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of interval walking training delivered through smart mobile devices upon albuminuria and leptin/adiponectin ratio in patients with T2D. METHODS: Patients with T2D aged 35–75 were randomized into control (n = 26) and interval training (IT, n = 14) groups. Patients in IT group had to perform three 60‐min interval walking sessions (3 min intervals of slow and fast walking with the intensity of 40% and 70% of the peak energy expenditure) per week delivered by smartphone application for four months. The adherence to training was monitored remotely. Outcome measures were albuminuria, leptin/adiponectin ratio, obesity indicators, and glycaemic control. Leptin and adiponectin concentration was measured in serum samples by Luminex technology. RESULTS: In the IT group compared to control group, we observed a statistically significant decrease in albuminuria (p = .002) and leptin/adiponectin ratio (p = .01), as well as a decrease in HbA1c close to statistical significance (p = .09). In IT group, changes in leptin/adiponectin ratio correlated significantly with changes in hip circumference (p = .024). CONCLUSION: Interval walking training is beneficial for vascular health in T2D via impact on albuminuria and leptin/adiponectin ratio.