MCT-HIIT improves physical fitness, body composition, and quality of life in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis

Abstract

Introduction

Osteoporosis is common among postmenopausal women and is associated with reduced physical function, lower quality of life (QoL), and increased fracture risk. Multicomponent training (MCT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are potential strategies to counter these effects.

Objective

To examine the effects of an 8-month MCT combined with HIIT on physical fitness, body composition, bone health, and QoL in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

Methods

Forty women aged ≥65 years participated. Functional fitness was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test battery. Body composition and bone parameters were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), and QoL was evaluated with the WHOQOL-BREF. Pre–post differences were analyzed using Brunner–Langer nonparametric models, and individual responsiveness was evaluated using cut-off criteria based on control group variability.

Results

Significant improvements were found in flexibility (p = 0.032) and aerobic endurance (p = 0.014), along with a small reduction in BMI (p = 0.048). No significant changes were observed in fat mass, lean mass, or bone mineral density. QoL outcomes showed heterogeneous responses, with improvements in social and environmental domains among some participants. Responder analysis indicated that 25–45 % of participants responded positively in functional fitness and selected QoL outcomes, while responsiveness for bone and body composition variables was minimal.

Conclusion

An 8-month MCT + HIIT programme improved functional fitness and certain QoL dimensions in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis but did not alter bone density or body composition. Programmes including higher mechanical loads, impact-based exercises, or individualized progression may be required to elicit osteogenic and compositional adaptations in this population.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06843486, registered on February 5, 2025. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06843486