Aerobic, Resistance and Inspiratory Muscle Training in Adults With Severe Mental Illness

People with severe mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or major depression, tend to have poorer physical health and a shorter life expectancy than the general population. Exercise can help, but it is often difficult to keep up over time.

In this study, adults with severe mental illness took part in a 12-week supervised exercise programme, with two sessions per week. Each session combined stationary cycling, strength exercises on machines, and training of the muscles used for breathing. The programme also included ongoing support and follow-up to help participants keep attending.

Fitness, strength, breathing function and body composition were measured before and after the programme. The researchers also recorded how many participants stayed until the end and how often they attended, and interviewed participants about their experience: what motivated them to join, what helped them continue, and what made it difficult.

The aim is to find out whether this kind of programme is feasible, safe and acceptable for people with severe mental illness, and what changes it produces in their physical health.