High-intensity Interval Exercise in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Expected Health Benefits on Cardiovascular Function, Inflammation and Quality of Life With High-intensity Interval Exercise for Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Cardiovascular performance and overall fitness can be improved by high-intensity aerobic activity, and these benefits may be achievable by persons with rheumatic diseases. The investigators hypothesize that a 12-week high-intensity interval exercise program will provide substantial improvements in cardiovascular function, inflammation and symptoms affecting quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Rheumatoid arthritis disease according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/ The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) 1987/2010 criteria
• Disease duration >1 year
• Age (range 20-60 years)
• Stable medication on anti- rheumatic drugs for >3 months
• Low-to-moderate disease activity (<5.1) according to the Disease activity score 28 (DAS28)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cerebrovascular diseases
• Diabetes
• Severe hypertension
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or other severe pulmonary diseases
• Other severe diseases that may be associated with adverse events or restrict participation in high-intensity exercise
• Arthroplasty of large joints
• Inability to manage Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET)
• Pregnancy
• Already participating in regular aerobic or strength exercise at a high intensity level (>1 hours/ week) during the last 6 months
• Inability to speak or read Swedish.