The protective effect of high-intensity interval exercise compared with continuous moderate exercise on glycaemic decline is more pronounced in the postabsorptive vs postprandial state in adults with type 1 diabetes: a randomised crossover trial.
DiabetologiaJun 9, 2026 (epub)
Angéline Melin, Elodie Lespagnol, Adrien Combes et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomised crossover trial investigated the glycaemic effects of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) versus moderate-intensity continuous exercise (CONT) in 20 adults with type 1 diabetes. Results showed that HIIE led to a smaller decline in capillary glucose levels compared to CONT, particularly in the postabsorptive state, with a significant difference of -0.72 ± 1.71 mmol/l for HIIE-PA versus -1.73 ± 1.48 mmol/l for CONT-PA.
Key findings
- HIIE resulted in a smaller decline in capillary glucose during exercise compared to CONT, particularly in the postabsorptive state.
- Capillary glucose declined less in the postabsorptive state than in the postprandial state (p=0.003).
- Participants spent less time at <3.0 mmol/l following HIIE compared to CONT over 24 hours post-exercise.
Why it matters
Understanding the differential effects of exercise modalities on glycaemic control can help clinicians tailor exercise recommendations for individuals with type 1 diabetes, potentially reducing the risk of hypoglycaemia.