High-intensity interval training (HIIT) may improve post-meal glucose control and cardiorespiratory fitness better than moderate-intensity continuous training in adults with prediabetes, though moderate-intensity training showed a small advantage for fasting glucose levels.
- HIIT improved 2-hour post-meal glucose by 0.16 mmol/L compared to moderate-intensity exercise
- Cardiorespiratory fitness improved significantly more with HIIT than moderate-intensity training
- Moderate-intensity continuous training showed a small advantage for fasting blood glucose
How this compares to prior research
Prediabetes affects millions of adults worldwide and increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Exercise has long been recommended for managing prediabetes, with most guidelines traditionally emphasizing moderate-intensity continuous training. However, recent interest has grown in whether high-intensity interval training might offer superior or different benefits for glycemic control and cardiovascular health in this population.
Diabetes prevalence trends, global population, 1980–1989
Key findings
- HIIT reduced 2-hour plasma glucose by 0.16 mmol/L more than moderate-intensity continuous training in adults with prediabetes
- Cardiorespiratory fitness improved substantially more with HIIT compared to moderate-intensity exercise
- Moderate-intensity continuous training showed a small but statistically significant advantage of 0.12 mmol/L for fasting blood glucose
What this means in practice
- Consider HIIT if your main concern is improving how your body handles glucose after meals and boosting overall fitness
- Ask your doctor whether moderate-intensity continuous training might be better if fasting glucose is your primary concern
- Note that most studies were short-term, so discuss long-term exercise strategies with your healthcare provider
Frequently asked questions
What is high-intensity interval training?
HIIT is structured exercise alternating between short bursts of intense activity and recovery periods, designed to improve fitness and metabolic health in less time than traditional steady-state exercise.
Is HIIT better than moderate exercise for prediabetes?
It depends on the outcome. HIIT appears better for post-meal glucose control and fitness, while moderate-intensity continuous training may offer a small advantage for fasting glucose levels.
How long do I need to do HIIT to see benefits?
Most studies in this review were short-term, so the duration needed for sustained clinical benefits in prediabetes remains unclear and requires further research.
Key terms explained
2-hour plasma glucose (2hPG)
Blood sugar level measured two hours after consuming a glucose drink, used to assess how well the body processes sugar after eating
Fasting blood glucose (FBG)
Blood sugar level measured after not eating for at least 8 hours, typically checked in the morning before breakfast
Cardiorespiratory fitness
The ability of the heart, lungs, and circulatory system to supply oxygen to muscles during sustained physical activity
Source: Effects of high-intensity interval training on glycemic control and cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with prediabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. · DOI: doi: 10.3389/fendo.2026.1837386
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