The most effective type of exercise for vascular recovery has been named

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) most effectively improves vascular health in people with cardiovascular diseases without causing exacerbation of pathologies. This conclusion was reached by scientists at Miguel Hernández University (Spain). The results of the study were published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology (EJPC).

The study included data from 6,818 patients with coronary artery disease and chronic heart failure. The scientists compared the effectiveness of different types of exercise: moderate-intensity cardio, resistance training, combined training, and HIIT.

The results showed that almost all types of physical activity improve endothelial function — the inner lining of blood vessels, which determines their elasticity and ability to dilate. However, HIIT demonstrated the greatest effect.

This type of training involves alternating short periods of maximum exertion and recovery. This pattern creates sharp fluctuations in blood flow, enhancing so-called "shear stress" — the force with which blood acts on the vessel walls. This stimulates the production of nitric oxide — a key substance responsible for vasodilation and protection of vessels from damage.

According to the analysis, HIIT significantly outperforms traditional moderate-intensity aerobic training in terms of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) — the primary non-invasive method for assessing endothelial function.

The authors also note that longer intervals of high-intensity exertion may provide additional benefits, although this conclusion requires further research. Combined programs (cardio plus resistance training) showed even more pronounced results, but such data remain limited for now.