Evaluation of a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Program for Military Personnel Receiving Inpatient Treatment for a Substance Use Disorder

Authors

  • Mikayla Soli Arizona State University
  • Rhonda Nelson University of Utah

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2024-V58-I2-11746

Keywords:

Exercise, High Intensity Interval Training, Military Personnel, Recreational Therapy, Substance Use Disorder, Mental Health

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate a high intensity interval training (HIIT) program delivered in an inpatient treatment setting serving military personnel. This recreational therapy (RT) program assessed the impact of a single session (60-minute) HIIT program on participant affect and state-anxiety. Using a single-group pretest-posttest design, 58 data sets were collected from participants (N = 20). Results indicated an increase in positive affect (z = -.6.52, p < .001), a decrease in negative affect (z = -2.64, p < .01), and a significant reduction in anxiety, t (57) = 1.99, p = .05 following the intervention. The program also resulted in a significant elevation in heart rate, t (57) = -25.89, p < .001 with most participants reaching moderate to high intensity physical activity levels. On a scale of 1–10, participants rated their likelihood of participating in HIIT post-discharge at 6.28 (SD = 2.43). Additional qualitative data provides valuable insight on the perceived benefits to participants and offers suggestions for future program development and research in this area.

References

Included in manuscript document.

Published

2024-05-03

Issue

Section

Research Papers