Fitness and Longevity in Exercise

Fitness and Longevity in Exercise

The study objective was to determine the safety and efficacy of aerobic exercise in older HIV-infected men in a randomized trial comparing different levels of exercise intensity.

The study was a randomized trial of moderate-intensity versus high-intensity aerobic exercise (AEX) training in older HIV-infected adults. Funding was provided by K23 AG024896 (PI, Oursler) and the UMB Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center P60 AG12583 (PI, Goldberg).

The central hypothesis was that high-intensity AEX training is well-tolerated and significantly increases aerobic capacity in older HIV-infected adults.

The study met its objectives:

1. Scientific AIMS met:

   1. High-intensity AEX training significantly increases aerobic capacity
   2. Both moderate-intensity and high-intensity AEX training improve ambulatory function and endurance.
   3. Activity of skeletal muscle oxidative enzymes is reduced, and associated with aerobic capacity.

2. Feasibility Objectives met:

   1. AEX training is safe and well-tolerated in older HIV-infected adults.
   2. Skeletal muscle punch biopsy is safe and well-tolerated in older HIV-infected adults.
   3. Preliminary data was collected on plasma biomarkers of inflammation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• HIV+
• stable combination antiretroviral therapy (cART)

Exclusion Criteria:

• AIDS defining conditions in the prior six months
• Conditions that increase the risk of exercise training per the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)