The Role of High-Intensity Interval Training in Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation: A Review

Abstract

In the last decade, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been the subject of many studies as an efficient intervention for improving various metabolic and cardiovascular markers. This integrative review examines in detail the impacts of HIIT on hypertension, cardiac rehabilitation, VO₂max, cardiometabolic risk, coronary heart disease/heart failure, and type 2 diabetes, gathering evidence from 40 studies published from 2015 to 2025. The results indicate that HIIT decreases blood pressure, significantly increases VO₂max, improves glycemic control, reduces arterial deficiency, and improves functional capacity in cardiac patients. We can conclude that when properly recommended, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) may be an important part of cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation programs. It seems to be an effective exercise technique for improving numerous cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes.