High-intensity interval training in patients with heart failure

Cardiac rehabilitation is a key component in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, uptake and adherence to programmes is suboptimal, especially for patients with heart failure. Traditionally, cardiac rehabilitation programmes have involved moderate-intensity continuous training; however, there is growing evidence that high-intensity interval training can produce equal or superior effects in both healthy and diseased populations. High-intensity interval training has already been shown to be both safe and effective, but the optimal protocols and delivery mechanisms are yet to be determined. Despite this, high-intensity interval training has the potential to offer an alternative mechanism of cardiac rehabilitation delivery to patients with heart failure, with the possibility of overcoming some of the challenges usually faced (such as patients' lack of time) in implementing successful cardiac rehabilitation programmes. This article aims to summarise the current knowledge surrounding the inclusion of high-intensity interval training in cardiac rehabilitation programmes, specifically focusing on those patients living with heart failure.